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Cowboy family, When six young men walked across the Old Central stage on June 10, 1896, they became the first of what would grow to hundreds of thousands of OSU graduates. This spring, as we celebrate our 150th commencement ceremony, we can reflect on how profoundly our campus, state, and nation have changed since that summer day in Oklahoma Territory — and yet how steadfast our mission has remained. It is a tremendous honor to lead this incredible institution as its 20th president. After four decades in higher education, I approach this responsibility with both humility and determination, and know that the presidency of OSU is not for the faint of heart, but it does require the heart of a servant — someone who will always lift up the aspirations and dreams of the Cowboy family. Our commitment is clear: to put students first in everything we do. Students are why we're here, why we teach and why we serve. This commitment extends beyond providing an excellent education to delivering a tremendous experience, whether on campus, in the field or online. It also means that we do everything we can to provide scholarships and support for those who choose OSU. From the Class of 1896 to the Class of 2025 — which includes the first cohort of our Ideal Graduate initiative — OSU graduates embody what it means to be servant-leaders who make lasting, positive impacts on their communities and the world. We move forward with an urgency of purpose and the confidence that we are changing lives, transforming education and paving the way for future generations of Cowboys. I look forward to working with all of you to fulfill our land-grant mission. Go Pokes!

Dr. Jim D. Hess OSU President osupres@okstate.edu

S TAT E M AG A Z I N E .O K S TAT E . E D U 1

In T his Issue

Red Dirt Revival Thousands came to Stillwater for Red Dirt music this April with the Boys From Oklahoma concert bringing down the house. (Page 58) On the cover: Turnpike Troubadours play in front of a sold-out crowd in April as part of the Boys From Oklahoma concert series at Boone Pickens Stadium. (Cover photo by Chris Madrigal)

2 SPRING 2025

Welcoming Dr. Hess

Highest Honor

New OSU president brings wealth of experience from career in higher education to role.

The OSU Alumni Association inducted new members into the Hall of Fame this spring.

Decades of Design Longtime Eskimo Joe’s designer Mike Staubus reflects on his career as he enters retirement.

Learning Opportunities OSU gives students chances to earn hands-on experience in their field of study.

Plus ...

Bright Future OSU honored 25 students as Outstanding Seniors based on excellence in their college career

Investing in Vet Med New house bill injects scholarship funds for students pursuing career in rural veterinary medicine.

Editor’s Letter

Socially Orange

Cowboy Way

Cowboy Chronicles

104

Chapter News

108

Campus News

112

Alumni Update

114

In Memory

116

Births

117

Wedding

Rooted in History “Oklahoma Gardening” celebrates 50 years of keeping the world informed and entertained..

Building Graduates OSU-OKC Construction Technology program gives students a career to make a difference in communities.

72 S TAT E M AG A Z I N E .O K S TAT E . E D U 3

OSU B R A N D M A N A G E M E N T Megan Horton | Associate Vice President of Brand Management Lance Latham | Chief Communications Officer Erin Petrotta | Chief Marketing Officer Casey Cleary | Associate Director of Marketing Strategy Mack Burke | Associate Director of Media Relations Jeremy Davis | Associate Director of Multimedia Shannon Rigsby | Associate Director of Public Information Hayley Hagen | Assistant Director of Digital Communications Dave Malec | Creative Manager Jordan Bishop | Managing Editor Kinsey Garcia and Kara Peters | Administrative Support Codee Classen, Cody Giles, Stephen Matthews and Alyssa White | Design Chris Ensor, Phil Gahagans, Kaitlyn Henry and Karolyn Moberly | Marketing Adam Hildebrandt and McKinzie McElroy | Multimedia Gary Lawson, Ellie Piper and Elizabeth Rogers | Photography William Hoback and Kendall Nodorft | Social Media Kurtis Mason | Trademarks and Licensing Writers: Taylor Bacon, Trisha Gedon, Mandy Gross, Hallie Hart, Tanner Holubar, Jeff Hopper, Page Mindedahl, David Peters, Sydney Trainor and Mak Vandruff Department of Brand Management | 305 Whitehurst, Stillwater, OK 74078-1024 405-744-6262 | okstate.edu | statemagazine.okstate.edu | editor@okstate.edu | osu.advertising@okstate.edu

O S U A L U M N I A S S O C I AT I O N Kurt Carter | Chair Scott Eisenhauer | Vice Chair Tina Parkhill | Immediate Past Chair Dr. Ann Caine | President Jake Wilkins | Vice President of Business Development David Parrack | Vice President of Finance and Operations Treca Baetz, Thomas Blalock, Susan Crenshaw, Benjamin Davis, Deedra Determan, Todd Hudgins, Sonja Hughes, Ginger Kollmann, Brian Krafft, Chris Moody, Aaron Owen, Joe Ray, Cecilia Robinson-Woods, Darin Schmidt, Taylor Shinn, Baloo Subramaniam and Matt Waits | Board of Directors Will Carr, Chase Carter, Katie Dragoo, Bailee Kirby, Libby Ray and Addie Wagner | Marketing and Communications OSU Alumni Association | 201 ConocoPhillips OSU Alumni Center, Stillwater, OK 74078 | 405-744-5368 | orangeconnection.org | info@orangeconnection.org

O S U F O U N D AT I O N Bill Patterson | Chair Blaire Atkinson | President Robyn Baker | Vice President and General Counsel Dawn Barnard | Vice President and Chief Financial Officer Ty Ropp | Interim Vice President of Development Pam Guthrie | Senior Associate Vice President of Human Resources Melanie Davis | Senior Associate Vice President of Information Strategy Courtney Wolfe MacNelly | Senior Director of Advancement Operations and Chief of Staff Blaire Atkinson, Bryan Begley, Craig Boelte, Ann Caine, Brian Callahan, Bryan Close (Honorary Trustee), Ann Dyer, Jennifer Grigsby (Honorary Trustee), David Houston, Brett Jameson, Griff Jones, Robert Keating, Shelly Lambertz, Greg Massey, Ross McKnight (Honorary Trustee), Gail Muncrief, Bill Patterson, Jenelle Schatz, Tiffany Sewell-Howard, Terry Stewart, Melinda Stinnett, Beverly Walker-Griffea, Carl Wiese, Jay Wiese and Darton Zink | Trustees Bryanna Freer, Samantha Hardy, Jennifer Kinnard, Chris Lewis, Estefania Martinez, Amanda Mason, Heather Millermon, Michael Molholt, Grant Ramirez and Benton Rudd | Marketing and Donor Experiences OSU Foundation | 400 South Monroe, P.O. Box 1749, Stillwater, OK 74076-1749 800-6224678 | OSUgiving.com | info@OSUgiving.com STATE magazine is published three times a year (fall, winter, spring) by Oklahoma State University, 305 Whitehurst, Stillwater, OK 74078. The magazine is produced by the Department of Brand Management, the OSU Alumni Association and the OSU Foundation, and is mailed to current members of the OSU Alumni Association. Magazine subscriptions are available only by membership in the OSU Alumni Association. Membership cost is $50. Call 405-744-5368 or mail a check to 201 ConocoPhillips OSU Alumni Center, Stillwater, OK 74078-7043. To change a mailing address, visit orangeconnection.org/update or call 405-744-5368. As an equal opportunity employer, Oklahoma State University complies with all applicable federal and state laws regarding non-discrimination. OSU is committed to a policy of equal opportunity for all individuals and does not discriminate based on race, religion, age, sex, color, national origin, marital status, disability, or veteran status with regard to employment, educational programs and activities, and/or admissions. For more information, the director of equal opportunity/Title IX coordinator is located at 401 General Academic Building and can be reached at 405-744-1156 or by visiting https://eeo.okstate.edu. This publication, issued by Oklahoma State University as authorized by the vice president of OSU Brand Management, was printed by Slate Group at a cost of $2.25 per issue: 37,075. | April 2025 | Copyright © 2025, STATE magazine. All rights reserved.

Letters From the Editor's Desk I hope this edition of STATE Magazine finds you well. As I write this, we’re approaching spring graduation and another historic moment: Oklahoma State University’s 150th commencement. It’s a reminder of the storied tradition that unites the Cowboy family and that history is always being made at OSU. The 150th commencement also featured the first cohort of the Ideal Graduate initiative. This intentional effort to empower graduates by developing specific competencies — professional preparedness, engaged citizenship, ethical leadership and personal responsibility — will help our graduates stand out in the job market and serve as impactful leaders. A four-night run of concerts at Boone Pickens Stadium was another historic entry (Page 58). Featuring the long-anticipated (and longthought-impossible) reunion of Cross Canadian Ragweed, the Boys From Oklahoma concert series attracted over 200,000 attendees and raised NIL funds to support student-athletes. As we look to the future, sustained investment in the College of Veterinary Medicine and the teaching hospital remain in focus. They are crucial pillars for our state, and our graduates are indispensable, particularly in rural communities (Page 52). Since taking over leadership of the OSU System, President Jim Hess has made that a significant priority, but his top priority has always been students. That was made clear to me as I worked on a feature story about the then interim president, who was later officially appointed president just days before this edition was sent to the press (Page 10). While struggling to boil down his 40-plus-year career in higher education, I found myself much more interested in the person than the resumé. After getting to know him better over the last few months, a few things stand out: He has the uncanny ability to remember anyone’s name, but he also remembers their goals, what inspires them and how he can personally help them get there. He’s humble but quick-witted. Kind but determined. He’s eager to embrace responsibility and have tough conversations, but he’s warm in his demeanor. He’s quick to invite criticism and quicker to deflect credit. He’s extremely well-read but always eager to learn more. He asks questions, welcomes big ideas, and, though a visionary himself, he doesn’t believe his vision is the only way. Those are all hallmarks of a great leader. And though he would probably shy away from such a glowing characterization, anyone who knows Dr. Hess knows OSU is in great hands. Mack Burke Editor editor@okstate.edu

STATE Magazine American Marketing Association Foundation | 2023 Higher Education Marketing Team of the Year Oklahoma College Public Relations Association | 2023 Magazine Grand Award

4 SPRING 2025

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S TAT E M AG A Z I N E .O K S TAT E . E D U 5

Commemorating a Cowboy Congressman

OSU remembers alumnus Watkins

es Watkins’ legacy will forever resonate beyond the halls of government. On March 26, Oklahoma State University and the state of Oklahoma lost a visionary leader who embodied generosity, service and an unwavering commitment to the future of education and economic development. Watkins was 86. Whether advocating for Oklahoma businesses on the global stage, championing education for OSU students or strengthening agriculture and rural communities, Watkins’ legacy is a testament to his dedication to improving the lives of those around him. “The Cowboy family lost a leader and friend with the passing of Wes Watkins. Our hearts go out to his family,” OSU President Jim Hess said. “He left an indelible mark on this university, his alma mater, through his generosity and vision for economic prosperity for Oklahoma businesses and students.” Born Dec. 15, 1938, in De Queen, Arkansas, Watkins graduated from OSU in 1960 with a degree in agricultural education. He served in the U.S. Air Force from 1960-67 before starting his career in public service in 1974 as a member of the Oklahoma State Senate. He retired in 2003 from the U.S. House of Representatives, where he spoke on behalf of Oklahoma’s 3rd Congressional District. Watkins was a passionate advocate for higher education, and his leadership and vision have profoundly impacted thousands of students and entrepreneurs throughout Oklahoma. As a U.S. Congressman and a driving force behind the Wes Watkins Center for International Trade Development at OSU, he was instrumental in shaping Oklahoma’s future by opening

6 SPRING 2025

Wes and Lou Watkins were married for 61 years. Lou is an OSU alumna, former regent and a College of Education and Human Sciences Hall of Famer.

doors of opportunity for those eager to succeed in an interconnected world. “All of us at the OSU Alumni Association were deeply saddened to hear of the passing of former representative and lifelong Cowboy Wes Watkins,” OSU Alumni Association President Ann Caine said. “His extraordinary career earned him numerous honors throughout his life, including OSU’s Distinguished Alumni Award in 1978 and induction into the OSU Hall of Fame in 1989. He was a longtime fixture of our Leadership Council and never missed riding in the Sea of Orange Homecoming Parade. Along with his wife, Lou, Wes was one of

OSU’s biggest champions, and we send our deepest condolences to his family.” A true leader, Watkins used his platform to ensure that the state’s farmers and rural communities had the tools to thrive. His efforts in creating the Wes Watkins Agricultural Research and Extension Center have left a lasting impact, offering vital research and resources that continue to benefit Oklahoma’s agricultural industry today. To request a copy of Watkins’ abridged biography, email Lou@WesWatkins.com.

STORY PAGE MINDEDAHL | PHOTOS PROVIDED

Wes Watkins’ love for OSU was reflected in the construction of the Wes Watkins Center for International Trade Development on the Stillwater campus.

S TAT E M AG A Z I N E .O K S TAT E . E D U 7

AT THE CENTER OF IT ALL

Oklahoma State University-Tulsa is where northeastern Oklahoma comes together to shape the future. We unite industry, organizations, researchers and students to transform ideas into real-world impact. Through the College of Professional Studies and OSU Polytech, we collaborate with employers to strengthen their workforce and help employees advance. By driving groundbreaking research to market, advancing workforce education and fostering collaboration across diverse sectors, OSU-Tulsa is Orange Country’s center of innovation and growth.

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STORY MACK BURKE | PHOTOS GARY LAWSON AND ELLIE PIPER

L ED BY L OV E

DRIVEN BY PURPOSE PRESIDENT HESS HAS SPENT HIS CAREER SERVING STUDENTS, BUILDING INSTITUTIONS AND FOLLOWING A CALLING FAR BIGGER THAN HIMSELF

im Hess has done it all. He had a prolific career in higher education spanning over four decades before he was inducted into the Oklahoma Education Hall of Fame in 2023 and named the 20th president of the OSU System this spring. But he wasn’t thinking about leading a university when he was working his first job — selling vacuums. It wasn’t front of mind when he was working for Walmart in college, nor was it on his radar when he arrived at OSU in the fall of 1975, securing his first employment position at the university — shoveling stalls at the College of Veterinary Medicine (Yes, you read that right). Then, a conversation with his mentor, Richard Mosier, foretold the future, setting him on the pathway to a doctorate in education and a lifetime of service to higher education in Oklahoma. Hess was working at Rogers State College in Claremore then, and Mosier was president of the institution, which would eventually be split into different entities, including OSU-Tulsa. “He told me, in my first conversation with him, he said, ‘You don’t know it, but

you’re gonna spend your entire career in higher ed,” Hess said. Hess recalled he initially scoffed at the idea, but when Mosier offered him the role of assistant to the president, he was open to believing. He was a young 20-something, still making plenty of mistakes, but his work ethic didn’t go unnoticed. He was met with support and encouragement that eventually led him to Stillwater and a doctorate in education. “I thank the Lord every day for Richard Mosier, because he put me on a path that I would otherwise not have been on,” Hess said. Mosier and other Hess supporters would be proven right about him time and time again. The Henryetta native helped establish OSU-Tulsa and Rogers State University as separate institutions, doubled OSU-Tulsa’s enrollment, created the Big Orange Bus, expanded the OSU Physicians Group and served an instrumental role in the acquisition of the teaching hospital, creating what is now OSU Medical Center. He also played a key role in developing and

S TAT E M AG A Z I N E .O K S TAT E . E D U 11

“So, he shows up at my front door, and at that moment, I thought, ‘Well, all right, God, I’m going to marry him.’”

Three months later, Jim had married the preacher’s daughter from western Oklahoma.

leading the OSU Medical Authority and the OSU Veterinary Medicine Authority and Trust. His long journey to the president’s office had many twists and turns, but one pivotal milestone stands out for Hess: The day he met his future wife, Angela. “Well, one day, I’m sitting in the back row. Church had just started, and this lady walked by. She was late, but she walked by and sat down, and she was sitting with this other group of ladies that turned out to be her mother and her sisters,” Hess said. “I thought that person was the most beautiful woman I have ever seen in my life.” Jim said she had an aura about her, and he never forgot what she looked like that day. Their courtship was more about destiny than dating. “So, I decided I wanted to meet her,” Jim said. “I parked my car across the street where she parked her car the next Sunday. I walked out of church, and

12 S P R I N G 2 0 2 5

she’s about maybe 15-20 feet behind me. So, I stopped to turn around, to see if I could get her to talk to me, and she just stopped. I turned around, walked a little further and turned around, and she stopped again. So I thought, well, there’s a hint. I don’t think she wants to talk to me.” That went on for a few weeks. Then, one Sunday, Jim had to miss out on “the highlight of his week,” so he left a rose on her windshield with a business card and a note that read, “I look forward to seeing you every Sunday, but today I can’t be there, so I’m going to miss the highlight of my week. If you have any interest in calling me, here’s my number. Please. Remember, the male ego is a fragile thing.” That afternoon, his phone rang, and he answered. “This is Jim,” he said. Angela replied, “Listen, buddy, if you want to be called ‘Jim,’ put that on your business card because it says James.” “I introduced myself, and he said, ‘I just feel in my spirit that we’re supposed to meet. He said, I’ve been praying God would send me an angel,’” Angela

“This is your Moses moment, Jim,” recalled. “My family calls me Angel. she said. “Are you going to answer the And so I said, ‘Well, do you want to go call or ask the Lord to send someone out?’ He said, ‘Yeah, I’ll pick you up else?” tomorrow after work.’ Jim was happy for the opportunity “So, he shows up at my front door, and at that moment, I thought, ‘Well, all to serve but knew he would need his partner every step of the way. right, God, I’m going to marry him.’” “If you’re with me, then I’ll do it,” he Three months later, Jim had married told her. the preacher’s daughter from western ___ Oklahoma. Since assuming the position in “We both knew immediately on the February and the removal of “interim” first date; we just talked and talked. I from his title in April, Hess has made told him about 20 times I was never his priorities clear. Topping that list: going to get married again. So get that students. Despite his new role, Dr. Hess through your head, sir,” Angela said. “And then I married my best friend. He is still teaches his courses because he said, really my best friend. I know people say “They made a commitment to this class, and I made a commitment to them.” that all the time, but it’s the truth.” He also gave up his presidential Their faith remains a pillar of their marriage, and Angela said it has helped parking spot, which is now awarded to a different honors student every month. to guide them through life’s seasons “If they have to pay to park, why and challenges. When he received the should I be any different?” he said. call to serve as interim president, Hess None of that is surprising for those conferred with his most trusted adviser and best friend. A decision like that isn’t who know him best. It would be a mistake to conflate his kindness with one Jim would make lightly, and when weakness, but his care for students is as he asked her what she thought, Angela genuine as the man himself. had a ready answer.

Jim was happy for the opportunity to serve but knew he would need his partner every step of the way.

“If you’re with me, then I’ll do it.” S TAT E M AG A Z I N E .O K S TAT E . E D U 13

(Left) OSU student and President’s Leadership Council member Savannah Wooten poses with President Hess after being selected as the first recipient of the Park Like A President parking pass. As part of the new program devised by Hess, a different winner is selected each month to use the president’s on-campus parking spot. (Right) President Hess chats with students outside the Student Union.

“Of course, he is going to take care of everything else that needs to be addressed, but for Jim, it’s always been about students,” Angela said. “And I think that will always be the case for as long as he is here.” At the institutional level, Hess is focused on securing long-term investment in the College of Veterinary Medicine to ensure that the college and the veterinary teaching hospital are once again recognized as national leaders. “You know, life has a twisted irony to it, and I started in Vet Med, and then ended up, more recently, the last couple of years, trying to improve Vet Med and thought, ‘What a great, circular path that was,’” Hess said. “Now, we have an opportunity to solve this problem for generations.” Another major point of emphasis for Hess is empowering faculty and staff to do what they do best. “The most exciting thing about this job is the people you get to work with,” he said. “Our institution, like all other institutions, has some great challenges ahead of it. … But I’m not worried about that, because we have the very best people that you can imagine working at this institution.”

14 S P R I N G 2 0 2 5

Hess said he aims to leave the university in a better position than when he began as president, starting with identifying goals for the future and building relationships. “When you really, really like one another, you’ll do just about anything to help each other,” he said. “I think the most exciting thing is identifying where we would like the institution to be 5, 10, 15 years from now. And that is an inclusive process because the most important thing you can do is just listen to the people around you, because if you listen to them, they’ll give you great wisdom. “The biggest mistake a president can make is to think that their vision is the only vision, because every person who works at this institution has a vision for their area or the discipline. To be successful as a president, you need to figure out what they need, give them what they need and then get out of the way. It’s pretty simple.” While still serving in an interim role, reporters asked Hess if he intended to pursue a more permanent appointment. Hess said that wasn’t a concern for him. In his view, there are two ways to serve in an interim role.

“One is to just do the job in front of you every day and make the best decisions you can make that are in the long-term best interest of the institution, regardless of how it affects you,” he said. “The other approach is to audition for the job that you want all the time. That causes people to make decisions that might not be in the best interest of the institution, but they might be in the best interest of an audition for a job. I’m committed to leading, not auditioning. “I think that this is a great institution. I just love it so much, and it deserves the very best leader available. And so what I’m going to spend my time focusing on is making the best decisions that I can to deliver a tremendous student experience and drive long-term growth. If we can do that, the future will take care of itself.”

Scan the code to watch an interview with President Hess.

IN HIS WORDS

IN THEIR WORDS

ON ADVICE FOR STUDENTS:

“One of the things that I like to encourage students to do is to experience the arts. I’m a big OSU athletics fan, but we also have a lot of great arts programs at this institution, and the arts are how we discover who we are as human beings, and it gives us a tie, not just to other people, but to the past. The arts remind us of our humanness, and so I always encourage students to experience the performing arts, the visual arts and music and broaden their horizons, because those are things you just don’t want to miss out on in life.”

ON HIS TRADEMARK BOW TIES:

President Hess’ stylistic trademark is the bow tie, and he estimates he has about 80 of them — many of them orange and black, of course. “I think it’s just kind of a distinction, and I think it sets me apart. It’s kind of a throwback, but it’s making a big comeback. Many young men wear bow ties now, but I’ve always enjoyed wearing one. … Angela’s not a fan; she prefers the longer ties. The problem with those ties is that you spend a lot of money on one of those longer ties. Now you may spend some money on a bow tie, but you won’t ruin it with spaghetti sauce or soup.”

“Working with Dr. Hess transformed not just my professional life but who I am as a person. He shaped my work ethic, my values and my approach to challenges in ways my younger self couldn’t have imagined. While others might talk about creating ‘family’ environments, Dr. Hess genuinely brings you into his circle. I remember being stunned when he texted me on my birthday just weeks after I started working with him — somehow he’d found out when it was and made sure I knew I mattered. That’s just who he is.” Mopileola Tomi Adewumi, DO,MBS,MHA ,MGH Resident Physician O tolaryngology (Ears, Nose and Throat) Baylor Scott and White, Baylor College of Medicine

“I would describe Jim as a servant leader. … Jim has always been a leader who would never expect anything of you he isn’t willing to do or hasn’t already done himself. He sets the bar extremely high but never wavers in his support of those on his team.” Bavette Miller, Ph.D. Chair, OSU School of Health Care Administration

ON HIS FAVORITE SPOTS ON CAMPUS:

“My favorite spot on campus is the library. As a student here, I spent every night in the library, because I had to study a lot. So every time I walk by on the sidewalk, I always look over to Edmon Low Library, because in my mind, it takes me back. Of course, the library is different now. ... I also like to walk through the Student Union, because there are always students in there, and it’s a great opportunity just to be able to talk to them. I like to hear what they want to do, where they’re from, why they came here, what motivated them to pick OSU. So, wherever the students are, it is a great place for me to be because that’s the only reason we’re here.”

ON HIS FAVORITE FOOD:

“You can’t go wrong with barbecue. So I love to frequent a couple of barbecue spots here in Stillwater, and I’ve got a couple, of course, in eastern Oklahoma, where I’m from.”

“[His appointment] confirmed what I already knew about him — namely that he is a great leader. He is forward thinking and will propel OSU forward, I have no doubt.” Gilbert R. Upchurch Jr., M.D. Edward M. Copeland III and Ann & Ira Horowitz Chair, Professor of Vascular Surgery, University of Florida

“Dr. Hess is one of the most uplifting and highly intelligent professors I’ve encountered. … I’ve learned a tremendous amount from his classes. He challenges my thinking and encourages me to think outside the box, which is incredibly valuable in today’s world.” Cindy Martens Senior Coordinator, Sponsored Programs College of Veterinary Medicine OSU doctoral student, Health Care Administration

S TAT E M AG A Z I N E .O K S TAT E . E D U 15

2025

he Oklahoma State University Alumni Association honored six new members of the OSU Hall of Fame at a ceremony on Feb. 7 in the ConocoPhillips OSU Alumni Center. Frank Eaton, Jay Helm, Drs. John and Catherine Jameson, Melinda Stinnett, and Jerry Winchester received the university’s highest honor. The award celebrates outstanding lifetime achievements in society and professional life.

WATCH THE EVENT Visit okla.st/HOF2025 to watch the induction video for each honoree and the full ceremony.

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STORY LIBBY RAY | PHOTOS GARY LAWSON AND GENESEE PHOTO

FRANK

Eaton Frank Eaton was born in Hartford, Connecticut, on Oct. 26, 1860. Eaton was a cowboy, scout, trail rider and a Deputy U.S. Marshal. The legend goes he learned to shoot a gun at age 8 and won the nickname “Pistol Pete” at 15 when he outshot the U.S. Cavalry’s best marksmen at Fort Gibson in the Indian Territory. While leading the 1923 Armistice Day Parade in Stillwater, a group of Oklahoma A&M College students asked him for permission to use his likeness as the college emblem. For more than 30 years, Eaton walked the sidelines at OSU athletic events and other school gatherings, demonstrating his quick draw skills, posing for photos and keeping the crowds cheering. Eaton was also an author, writing two books about his life. “Pistol Pete: Veteran of the Old West” was published in 1952, and “Campfire Stories: Remembrances of a Cowboy Legend” posthumously in the early 1990s. In 1950, he began writing a weekly column for the Perkins Journal, initially titled “Truthful Pete Says,” which later changed to “Pistol Pete Says.” The mythology around Pistol Pete continued throughout his life. Even in his later years, he could still toss a coin into the air, draw his pistol and shoot it before it hit the ground. Eaton died at his home in Perkins, Oklahoma, at age 97 on April 18, 1958. At the time of his death, he earned his living as a blacksmith and deputy sheriff. In 1997, the National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum in Oklahoma City honored Eaton with their director’s award for his contributions to the memory of the Old West. In 2022, he was inducted into their Hall of Great Westerners. OSU celebrated “The Year of the Cowboy” in 2023, marking the 100th anniversary of Eaton being selected to represent the university. He lived a long life and left behind a remarkable story of resilience and courage. Generations of OSU alumni and sports fans have a special place in their hearts for “Pistol Pete.”

“Grandad was a great storyteller and often told us of his adventures, of the people he knew and tales they shared. He never met a stranger. Anybody that came to his door was welcome.” DOW W ISE ON BEH A LF OF FR A NK E ATON

S TAT E M AG A Z I N E .O K S TAT E . E D U 17

JAY

Helm J. Loy “Jay” Helm graduated from Oklahoma State University in 1970 with a bachelor’s degree in business administration. While on campus, he was a member of Sigma Chi Fraternity, an experience that deepened his passion for OSU. Upon graduation, he quickly began supporting OSU as a football and basketball booster. After graduating, Helm began employment with the Hardesty Company. Prior to forming American Residential Group in 1997, he served as managing partner for Lincoln Property Company in Oklahoma and Arkansas. Helm currently serves as chairman of American Residential Group, a commercial real estate firm engaged in developing and managing multifamily residential properties. In 2001, Helm’s passion for broad and equal access to quality public higher education was recognized by Oklahoma Gov. Frank Keating. He was appointed to the OSU/A&M Board of Regents, where he served for 12 years until being appointed by Gov. Mary Fallin to the State Regents for Higher Education in 2013. He served the State Regents until his retirement in 2022. Helm currently serves as the chair of the OSU Medical Authority Board of Trustees and OSU Medical Trust Board of Trustees. He also serves on the MapleMark Bank Board and the executive committee of the board of directors for the Tulsa Regional Chamber while being active in many other civic projects. Previously, Helm served on the boards of the University Center at Tulsa, F&M Bank and Trust, and OSU-Tulsa Trustees. Helm received the OSU Center for Health Sciences Distinguished Public Service Award in 2009 and was selected as an OSU in Tulsa Icon in 2017 for his contributions to the university. The Spears School of Business named him to its Spears School Tributes: 100 for 100 list in 2014 and inducted him into its hall of fame in 2022. One year later, he was inducted into the Oklahoma Higher Education Hall of Fame. Helm is also a member of the Proud and Immortal Society for helping support OSU in other areas, including multiple endowed scholarships. Helm and his wife, Fayenelle, have been married 45 years and have one daughter, Christian Helm Leikam, son-in-law, Robert Leikam Jr., and grandchildren, Nellie and RK. Helm is a life plus member of the OSU Alumni Association.

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“It’s exciting where we’ve gone and where this university is going. I’m proud to be a Cowboy.” JAY HELM

DRS. JOHN AND CATHERINE

Jameson

Dr. John H. Jameson graduated from Oklahoma State University with a bachelor’s degree in zoology in 1970. He completed his doctorate in dental surgery at Creighton University in 1974. Dr. Catherine E. Jameson attended OSU before earning a bachelor’s degree in education from the University of Nebraska-Omaha, a master’s degree in psychology from Goddard College and a doctorate from Walden University. While at OSU, John served on the College of Arts and Sciences Student Council, was sports editor of the OSU yearbook and pledge trainer for Lambda Chi Alpha. He also worked for four years at the Edmon Low Library. John practiced dentistry in Wynnewood, Oklahoma, for 30 years and brought his knowledge of comprehensive and aesthetic dentistry to the podium. Cathy founded Jameson Management Inc., an international management, hygiene and marketing firm. John received the Alumni Merit Award from the Creighton School of Dentistry. He served on boards for the Oklahoma Dental Association, the Foundation for Academic Excellence, the Oklahoma Quarter Horse Association and Jameson Management Inc. He also serves on the Associate Board of Directors for the National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum. Cathy was inducted into the OSU College of Education and Human Sciences Hall of Fame. She served on the OSU Foundation Board of Trustees and now on its Board of Governors. She was named one of the Top 25 Women in Dentistry and received lifetime achievement awards from the Excellence in Dentistry Organization and from the Academy of Dental Office Managers. The Jamesons are contributors to the Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation, Creighton, scholarship donors to OSU CEHS, founding donors of The McKnight Center for the Performing Arts, Lambda Chi Alpha Fraternity, Chi Omega Women’s Fraternity, and the Christian Church of Sulphur Youth Program. Cathy and John own and operate the Jameson Ranch in Davis, Oklahoma, where they raise registered quarter horses. They have two children — Dr. Bretton Jameson of Stillwater, and Carrie Jameson Webber of Oklahoma City. They are both life members of the OSU Alumni Association.

“It has been a blessing to us to share OSU. Everywhere we go, we try to be an ambassador for this university and for the state of Oklahoma.” DR . CATHER INE JA MESON

“It is such a joy to be able to share this award with Cathy. What this has meant to us is tremendous.” DR . JOHN JA MESON

S TAT E M AG A Z I N E .O K S TAT E . E D U 19

MELINDA

Stinnett Melinda Stinnett graduated from Oklahoma State University in 1989 with a bachelor’s degree in accounting. Stinnett was the managing director of Stinnett & Associates, a certified Women’s Business Enterprise and certified Great Place to Work, which she founded in 2001. Stinnett and her leadership team grew the firm from a “party of one” to more than 120 team members and contractors in six cities across three states. During that time, they significantly expanded their service offerings beyond SarbanesOxley and internal audit services to include cybersecurity, supply chain management, data analytics and ESG. In July 2022, Stinnett & Associates was acquired by CBIZ, a public company offering accounting, tax and advisory services. She was a senior managing director and co-led the risk advisory services practice, one of the fastestgrowing divisions in the advisory group. Stinnett is also passionate about giving back to her community. She is currently a member of the Tulsa Community College Foundation Board and the Tulsa Regional Chamber Board of Advisors. She is also a member of the OSU Foundation Board of Governors, the OSU School of Accounting Advisory Board and Executive Committee, and the OSU Eastin Center for Career Readiness Board. Stinnett also served as a board member of the Philbrook Museum of Art and the Indian Nations Council of the Boys Scouts of America. Stinnett was named Oklahoma Small Business Person of the Year by the U.S. Small Business Administration in 2017. She was named the Oklahoma Society of CPA’s 2021 Outstanding Member in Business & Industry award. She was selected as the 2021 inductee into the Spears School of Business Hall of Fame. Stinnett was also a recipient of the Spears School of Business 100 for 100 in 2015, and in 2011, was recognized as an OSU School of Accounting Distinguished Alumni and honored with the Spears School of Business Orange Star Award. In her spare time, Stinnett enjoys Marvel superhero movies, scuba diving and quality time with her family, which includes her husband, Joel; their four children – Amanda, Josh, Nate and Sarah; two daughters-in-law – Mallory and Shanyn; and three grandchildren – Amelia, Stetson and Sullivan. She is a life member of the OSU Alumni Association.

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“It was at OSU that I learned the value of hard work, perseverance and, most importantly, the power of connections.” MELINDA STINNETT

JERRY

Winchester Jerry Winchester graduated from Oklahoma State University with a bachelor’s degree in mechanical power engineering in 1983. Winchester was a three-year letterman with the Cowboy football team, earning AllBig Eight Conference Academic recognition. Winchester is the retired CEO of Seventy Seven Energy, an Oklahoma City-based oil field and energy service company formed from a spin-off of Chesapeake Energy’s Oilfield Service business. Prior to that role, he was the CEO of the Houston-based pressure control and oil well firefighting business, Boots & Coots. He also worked for 15 years with Halliburton Energy Services. Winchester recently served as the council president for the Last Frontier Council of the Boy Scouts of America and was awarded the Silver Beaver from the Boy Scouts, the highest honor a council can bestow on a volunteer. He and his wife, Rae, have also chaired the Gathering of Eagles event gala for new Eagle Scouts and their parents. In addition to his service with scouting, Winchester had a 20-plus year involvement with OSU, having served as board chair for both the OSU Foundation and the OSU Alumni Association. He is also a member of the OSU College of Engineering, Architecture and Technology Hall of Fame. Winchester is the immediate past board chair for the National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum and served as a volunteer for the boards of the Oklahoma 4-H Foundation, Duncan Regional Hospital and the Multilateral Endowment Management Company, which manages the OSU Foundation’s endowment of OSU assets. He also serves on the board of directors for Regent Bank, headquartered in Tulsa. The Winchesters have two daughters, Leigh and Abbie, both OSU graduates. They currently reside at their ranch in Lincoln County, southwest of Perkins, Oklahoma. He is a life member of the OSU Alumni Association.

“A lot of the important things I have learned in life, I learned here at OSU.” JERRY WINCHESTER

S TAT E M AG A Z I N E .O K S TAT E . E D U 21

Project Student Innovation, the Riata Center’s PhilanthroPete project, provides scholarship opportunities and competition awards.

Power of PhilanthroPete OSU’s crowdfunding platform continues to grow in support and impact

klahoma State University is full of ideas that need just a little support to become reality. PhilanthroPete, OSU’s crowdfunding platform, is here to give those dreams a push in the right direction. The platform gives students, faculty and staff a place to crowdsource essential funding for campus projects, research and organizations. By uniting the Cowboy family in collective giving, PhilanthroPete has continued to make an impact at OSU since its launch in 2017. In 2024, its 121 projects raised $331,652 through 1,790 gifts. “PhilanthroPete continues to grow, connecting more members

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of the Cowboy family each year to support important campus projects,” said Adrian Matthys, OSU Foundation assistant vice president of pipeline growth and readiness. “The platform has become a vital resource, empowering our students, faculty and staff while enabling our donors to help cultivate a strong culture of philanthropy across campus.” Many PhilanthroPete projects feature a strong emphasis on student success. Since 2009, the Riata Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship has served as a hub for OSU students interested in starting businesses, developing ideas and gaining real-world

experience. It offers mentorship, hands-on training and access to competitions that help students refine their business models. The center’s PhilanthroPete project, Project Student Innovation, was created to increase awareness and financial support for student entrepreneurs, ensuring they have the resources needed to succeed. Project leader and staff member Julie Wilson hopes to expand the Riata Startup Experience into a well-known campus resource, helping students bring their business ideas to life. “My vision for the Riata Startup Experience is to build the program into a center that all of campus is aware of

STORY GRANT RAMIREZ | PHOTOS PROVIDED

“We literally could not do what we do without the support of our donors. I want our donors to know that they didn’t just help us build a better car this year, but that they are helping future engineers gain invaluable experience that will set them apart in their careers.” NICK NAPOLIELLO, BULLET RACING CLUB REPRESENTATIVE AND MATERIALS LEAD

Bullet Racing’s Fuel the Future campaign helps with the out-of-pocket costs of building a new car each year.

and the resources we provide students wanting to explore the venture creation process,” Wilson said. “Even if students don’t launch a startup immediately, involvement in the Riata Center highlights their initiative, problemsolving and creativity, making them attractive to future employers.” Their PhilanthroPete campaign was a success, raising more than $16,000. The funds raised will add general scholarship opportunities for the 202526 academic year as well as awards for both the Business Plan and Pitch and Poster competitions. They will also allow the Riata Center to expand its resources to assist students in the business formation process. “Students now have more access to critical resources that will help them develop their business ideas, while fostering innovation,” Wilson

said. “Their investment in the Riata Center isn’t just about funding a project; it is shaping the future of student entrepreneurs.” Bullet Racing’s Fuel the Future campaign is another project that has experienced the transformational impact of PhilanthroPete. OSU’s Formula SAE team is dedicated to pushing the boundaries of engineering and automotive innovation. Through hands-on experience, students design, build and compete with a highperformance race car at international competitions. Nick Napoliello, club representative and materials lead for Bullet Racing, said his favorite memory with the team is driving its car at a competition in Michigan last year. But the benefits he’s experienced go far beyond the thrill of being behind the wheel.

To learn more about how to get involved with PhilanthroPete, visit philanthropete.osugiving.com.

“Bullet Racing offers many opportunities to develop real-life, applicable skills across multiple disciplines,” Napoliello said. “Beyond learning new skills, applying engineering concepts and making friends, I think FSAE involvement is one of the best things you can have on your resume as an engineer. I have yet to have an interview where Bullet Racing is not a primary topic of discussion.” Bullet Racing has to build a new car each year, which can be expensive. While they have a few sponsorships and donors, many top-of-the-line components must be purchased out-of-pocket. Beyond funding key equipment, PhilanthroPete has helped Bullet Racing invest in cutting-edge materials and technologies to enhance their car’s performance. It raised more than $7,000 to fund the project. Donor support allows students to gain real-world engineering experience, preparing them for careers in the automotive and mechanical industries. “We literally could not do what we do without the support of our donors,” Napoliello said. “I want our donors to know that they didn’t just help us build a better car this year, but that they are helping future engineers gain invaluable experience that will set them apart in their careers.”

Scan to learn more about Bullet Racing.

S TAT E M AG A Z I N E .O K S TAT E . E D U 23

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OS d e Ua p el lum h nus Mike Staubus

“T e p he e k goa a .” m l was always to hat t d i And I think we d 24 S P R I N G 2 0 2 5

STORY PAGE MINDEDAHL | PHOTOS GARY LAWSON

n the world of branding, few images are as recognizable as the smiling face of Eskimo Joe and his trusty sidekick, Buffy. Behind many of the beloved T-shirt designs you have most likely seen is Oklahoma State University alumnus Mike Staubus, whose artistic touch helped turn a Stillwater bar into a national destination. Staubus, a 1983 OSU graduate with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in graphic design, never set out to become a household name in Oklahoma. But his passion for art ultimately set him on a career path that would intertwine with Stillwater’s Jumpin’ Little Juke Joint, which celebrates its 50th anniversary this year. “I wasn’t the best student, but I fell in love with publications,” Staubus said. “Working on the OSU yearbook gave me an opportunity to explore photography and design, and, more importantly, it introduced me to a lot of great people.”

A CHANCE MEETING

After graduating from OSU, Staubus started a small screenprinting business out of his basement on Husband Street in Stillwater. The operation was far from commercial, but it was a start. His early clients were small businesses around town, and while he wasn’t making much money, he was gaining experience. One sweltering June afternoon, he decided to take a break and grab a drink at Eskimo Joe’s. At the time, Joe’s was just a tiny bar with a handful of devoted patrons. That spontaneous visit turned into a career-defining moment when a friend introduced him to Eskimo Joe’s owner Stan Clark. “My buddy told me, ‘Hey, this place is coming up on its anniversary. You should meet the owner and pitch a T-shirt idea.’ So, he brought Stan over, and I told him about my idea for an anniversary shirt featuring the snowshoes that hung on Joe’s wall,” Staubus said. Clark, known for his enthusiasm and eye for marketing, loved the concept. The first run of 200 shirts sold out almost immediately. That moment marked the beginning of a creative partnership that would last more than four decades.

A famous Staubus design is this T-shirt, inspired by Cowboy basketball player Scott Pierce losing a tooth during an Elite Eight game against UMass. Eskimo Joe’s quickly made this shirt for the Cowboys’ 1995 Final Four appearance in Seattle.

“We’ve been a blessing to each other,” Clark said. “His contribution to our brand is immeasurable. It was a very long-term relationship. I aspire to create and nurture it in everything I do. We live by a vision of greatness. We want to be the favorite company everyone works with. And Mike reflects that.”

LOCAL LEGEND TO NATIONAL ICON

Following that first successful shirt, Staubus became Eskimo Joe’s go-to designer. Over the years, he illustrated countless shirts, advertisements and promotional materials that captured the brand’s fun-loving spirit.

His work wasn’t just limited to anniversary shirts. Staubus was instrumental in developing themed designs for holidays, OSU sporting events and pop culture parodies. One of the most successful designs came in 1995 when OSU’s men’s basketball team reached the Final Four in Seattle. Staubus pitched the idea for a shirt called “Toothless in Seattle,” a play on the movie “Sleepless in Seattle,” inspired by OSU player Scott Pierce losing a tooth during a game. The design was a massive hit, selling thousands of shirts and solidifying Eskimo Joe’s place in Stillwater culture.

S TAT E M AG A Z I N E .O K S TAT E . E D U 25

“That moment really changed things,” Staubus said. “We suddenly had lines wrapped around the block. We had to bring in multiple printers to keep up with demand. It was a turning point for both Eskimo Joe’s and for me.” As Eskimo Joe’s grew, so did its reach. In 2011, OSU and Eskimo Joe’s officially partnered to co-brand merchandise, a milestone that Staubus considers one of his proudest achievements. “To have my alma mater recognize the work we had done and invite us to collaborate officially was really special,” he said. “It felt like everything coming full circle.”

A LEGACY IN INK

For 43 years, Staubus has poured his creativity into every design, helping shape Eskimo Joe’s into more than just a restaurant. His illustrations found their way into homes nationwide, often

From left: Eskimo Joe’s owner Stan Clark and longtime designer Mike Staubus pose inside the Joe’s store, which is full of items depicting Staubus’ designs.

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as treasured souvenirs from visits to Stillwater. “Mike’s contribution to everything that the Joe’s brand has become is off the charts — you can’t even put it into words. He was the first to take Joe and Buffy out of the circle. He gave them both life, and everything they have become has been Mike’s vision,” Clark said. “He never fails to blow my mind, even after decades. I am amazed at what he has grown to become as an artist.” Now, after a lifetime of creating, Staubus is stepping back into a new role as a consultant for Eskimo Joe’s, ensuring the brand stays true to its roots while giving new artists the chance to put their stamp on Joe’s legacy. Although he won’t be illustrating full-time, he remains passionate about the arts and hopes to help emerging artists find opportunities in design and branding. “I’ve been lucky to do what I love for so long, and I want to help other artists

do the same,” he said. “Art isn’t just about skill; it’s about storytelling, about making people feel something. That’s what I’ve always aimed to do.” With more than a thousand designs to his name and an immeasurable impact on OSU and Stillwater, Staubus’ work will live on in the smiles of Joe and Buffy. “The goal was always to make people happy,” he said. “And I think we did that.”

Scan the code to watch a video feature on Eskimo Joe’s 50th anniversary.

From paper to print, Mike Staubus’ ideas start as a sketch before becoming a kaleidoscope of color: an eye-catching product that makes Eskimo Joe’s stand out.

S TAT E M AG A Z I N E .O K S TAT E . E D U 27

ALUMNI A S S O C I AT I O N

Thank you, first responders. In the face of adversity following the spring wildfires, you stood strong and unwavering — embodying the Cowboy spirit.

Your heroic efforts to protect our community show the meaning of being loyal and true. Together, we are Stillwater Strong, and your actions remind us of the resilience of the Cowboy family.

IMPACT SPOTLIGHT

Alexandra SPARKS JUNIOR | HORTICULTURE | TULSA, OK

SCHOLARSHIPS: • Gregory D. Smith Endowed Scholarship • R.C. and Doris Arens Scholarship Fund • Paul J. Mitchell Horticulture and Landscape Architecture Fund

lex Sparks looked out into the backyard of her Tulsa home and watched her dad work. Every day, Scott Sparks spent time in the summer heat tending to his plants, watering them and maybe even talking to them under his breath. He was a stonemason who found a passion for growing vegetables and herbs and shared it with his daughter. Alex, a junior at Oklahoma State University, didn’t grow up on a farm or have acres of land. But thanks to her father, she found a love for horticulture anyway — in a shared backyard shaded by an oak tree. “I watched my father pour love, care and appreciation into his plants,” Alex said. “He got good results because he put good energy into them. He really inspired me. He showed me it’s easy to grow your own things if you put in the effort.” Scott died in February 2023 after a battle with neuroendocrine cancer, which made Alex reevaluate her life. She started a garden in her dad’s honor, building off a small fire pit made of cinder

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blocks and leftover rock from his previous jobs. As the garden blossomed with all sorts of produce — from peppers and tomatoes to cucumbers and Swiss chard — she realized she needed to change course to find a place where she could pursue horticulture. That search brought her to Stillwater. “After I started the garden, I really liked the idea of growing my own stuff to use for food or products,” she said. “It inspired me to be passionate about growing things and to use them in a positive way and without wasting. It makes me feel connected to my dad.” Since starting at OSU, Alex regularly commutes from her mom’s house in Tulsa for classes. She recently started making the trip by bus — OSU’s Big Orange Bus (BOB) service — to save money. She has received multiple scholarships, which have been crucial in helping her overcome financial struggles while pursuing her education. They’ve made her path feasible.

S TO RY GRANT RAMIREZ | P H OTO S BRYANNA FREER A N D PROVIDED

"Whenever I harvest from my garden, I want to give things away as well because that’s what my father would have done. He was trying his best to put out a positive mark on the world, and I want to do the same.” ALEX SPARKS, OSU HORTICULTURE JUNIOR

“I knew I would need help paying for my education, and I’m incredibly thankful for the scholarships I’ve been awarded,” Alex said. “Commuting is expensive, and they’ve helped out a lot and given me the opportunity to achieve my dreams.” Along with her major in horticulture, Alex is also minoring in food science. She aspires to start her own farm-to-table restaurant after graduation, one that prioritizes sustainable business practices and minimizes waste. It will utilize produce she’s grown herself, limiting consumption of goods from large corporations. “I hope my legacy upholds my values of prioritizing people and wellness over profit,” she said. But Alex isn’t waiting until then to start her business ventures. She’s participated in numerous vending opportunities, selling house plants, pepper and tomato sprouts, teas and pine resin salve. She has spent time learning about the medicinal qualities of plants and wants to share those with not only her friends and family, but also her community. As a teaching garden intern at Woodward Park last summer, she shared her knowledge with the public, answering questions and educating park visitors. This service-oriented mindset is another thing she took from her dad, who frequently gave away baskets of homegrown produce. Friends had to be wary, though, in case he threw in an extraordinarily spicy pepper. “I’m just really passionate about making things from nature,” Alex said. “Whenever I harvest from my garden, I want to give things away as well because that’s what my father would have done. He was trying his best to put out a positive mark on the world, and I want to do the same.”

To learn how you can make a difference in the lives of students like Alex, visit:

OSUgiving.com. S TAT E M AG A Z I N E .O K S TAT E . E D U 31

THE

BEYOND BOOKS How OSU’s hands-on opportunities shape career-ready graduates

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t Oklahoma State University, learning extends beyond the classroom. OSU faculty and staff strive to provide hands-on experiences and leadership opportunities that prepare students for success, whether it’s through student employment opportunities as graduate assistants or interns to participating in student organizations. These opportunities aren’t one-sizefits-all, either. In fact, the university fosters an environment where students can individually engage in on-campus work to explore their passions while gaining tools, connections and realworld skills that make them stand out in the job market. No matter a student’s interest — whether agriculture, theatre, hospitality, health or business — OSU’s commitment to student success remains the same.

Mentorship that Matters

Grace White, an Indiana native and former collegiate cross-country runner, is pursuing her Ph.D. in nutrition and dietetics. White came to OSU for the opportunity to grow professionally and develop her resumé by learning through research in a hands-on environment. “I don’t want to just be in a lab all day,” White said. “I love actually interacting with the people that you’re hoping to make a difference in their lives at some point and having more of that direct impact.” As a graduate assistant, White creates programs to set up soon-to-be graduates — like collegiate studentathletes — with nutrition courses to transition them from being athletes with a tailored diet to fending for themselves in the real world. She is also a performance dietitian for OSU’s nationally ranked track and field, cross-country, and golf programs, meeting with athletes oneon-one, providing group education and managing athlete fueling stations. White also serves as a hub team member

Grace White meets with OSU student-athletes one-on-one to provide guidance on nutrition management and education.

“The fact that she went straight out of her master’s into a graduate assistant role where she is the dietitian, that’s incredible. How many people get to roll straight out of their master’s and do that? Not many. There are really cool opportunities here that our students get to step into...” DR. JILL JOYCE ASSISTANT PROFESSOR OF PUBLIC HEALTH NUTRITION DEPARTMENT OF NUTRITIONAL SCIENCES

for the Project ECHO Strength and Conditioning line in collaboration with the Human Performance and Nutrition Research Institution. Dr. Jill Joyce, assistant professor of public health nutrition in the Department of Nutritional Sciences, serves as White’s advisor, helping provide experiential learning experiences and industry connections to guide her and other students’ career paths. “We have so many internship rotations or jobs on campus where we can get students exactly what they want,” Joyce said. “We can tailor and get them what they need, and they’ll leave here with an insanely stacked resume.”

STORY SYDNEY TRAINOR | PHOTOS GARY LAWSON AND ELLIE PIPER

A nationally recognized mentor for students, Joyce takes an individualized approach to helping students achieve their dreams. White’s experience, combined with her education, will make her extremely appealing to future employers once she graduates, Joyce said. “For Grace to get hired as a dietitian at a D1 school— that’s huge. Those jobs are not easy to get,” Joyce said. “... The fact that she went straight out of her master’s into a graduate assistant role where she is the dietitian, that’s incredible. How many people get to roll straight out of their master’s and do that? Not many. There are really cool opportunities here that our students get

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to step into, and if they weren’t at OSU, they wouldn’t get to as easily roll into them like that.”

Learning Together, Succeeding Together

Hailing from Bartlesville, Oklahoma, mechanical and aerospace engineering major Paxton Bradford yearned for opportunities outside his four-wall classroom and stacks of homework. Shortly after arriving on campus, Bradford became involved with projects at the Oklahoma Aerospace Institute for Research and Education. His involvement sparked his interest in space and gave Bradford a competitive edge in the job market. From launching high-altitude balloons and capturing data to connecting with industry leaders, he’s gained firsthand experience. Learning from experts, he understands each company’s focus and can determine the best fit for his career aspirations. “I’m really interested in the space industry, so I’ve tried to tailor what I do at OAIRE to that, and it’s been really good because they’ve definitely helped me steer my work there in the direction that I want to go after college,” Bradford said. Outside of class, Bradford is the president of Space Cowboys — a collaborative club between Cowboy Rocket Works, High Altitude Ballooning, Micro-G NExT and CubeSat — where he is engaged as the Rocket Works chief engineer. “The reason that I went after the club aspect, even though I already had the work experience, was it’s good to work in these higher-up organizations, like OAIRE, that know what they’re doing, but it’s also good to really throw yourself into a design process where you have no idea what you’re doing because it forces you to work through that whole process yourself as kind of the management instead of having someone else helping you,” Bradford said. “That’s been a great resource for me to feel that I’m really applying myself as an engineer in college. And I think it pairs very well with the work we do at OAIRE.” Bradford believes his hands-on learning experiences will set him

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“That’s been a great resource for me to feel that I’m really applying myself as an engineer in college. And I think it pairs very well with the work we do at OAIRE.” PAXTON BRADFORD MECHANICAL AND AEROSPACE ENGINEERING MAJOR

Paxton Bradford serves as president of Space Cowboys where he gains hands-on experience in rocketry and engineering outside the classroom.

apart in the job market, equipping him with industry skills and leadership experience. His campus involvement also helped bolster his education. “It’s not only allowed me to set myself apart resume-wise in my career search, but it’s made it easier to get through the hard classes and all the difficult college stuff that happens because I get to work with people who are just as interested in the things that I’m interested in,” Bradford said. “It’s showing you the light at the end of the tunnel, that there’s something you get through all this hard, rigorous coursework, and that’s hopefully a good paying job that you really enjoy at the end of it.”

Opening Doors to Opportunity

At The McKnight Center for the Performing Arts, production manager Chrissi McCullough gives students like Thess Holloway a first-class experience in live entertainment. As a stagehand, Holloway, a theatre design and music industry major

from Arkansas, is heavily involved in the technical setup of lighting, audio, wardrobe and props for the professional shows The McKnight Center brings in. “It’s great getting to see people in your profession,” Holloway said. “In my case, getting to meet with them and ask some questions, like, how long have you been touring for? What’s the touring industry like? Do you recommend any opportunities? We get to learn little bits and pieces of knowledge, and they’re also just good people to talk to, and, it’s great getting to know who is working in your industry.” To experience these opportunities off campus, a student previously had to travel to Oklahoma City or Tulsa, McCullough said. The hands-on experience from The McKnight Center has taught Holloway techniques and skills that supplement what he’s learned in a classroom, which he feels has prepared him to be an industry professional.

“If they truly take advantage of the opportunity here, they will leave here after they graduate with really developed skills to be able to go into this professionally.” CHRISSI MCCULLOUGH PRODUCTION MANAGER THE MCKNIGHT CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS

STUDENT EMPLOYMENT F A S T

F A C T S

6,000+

EMPLOYED ON-CAMPUS STUDENTS (THIS INCLUDES GRADUATE ASSISTANTS)

219

DEPARTMENTS EMPLOYING STUDENT WORKERS

15-20

HOURS STUDENT WORKERS CAN WORK PER WEEK

“What’s great about McKnight is that as stage techs, we are trained and learn how to do multiple different areas of specialties,” Holloway said. “I know how to hang and focus lights properly, how to design programs and lighting boards. Right now, I’m big into sound, and so I’m getting to learn certain training on the soundboard and learn their system.” In a world where some entry-level positions still require a bit of experience, McCullough prefers putting students in positions to gain technical skills and expertise in the management aspect of live entertainment, hopefully opening doors to career opportunities. “I have no requirements. It’s all on-the-job learning,” McCullough said. “By the time they graduate, they will be able to put on their resume that they know theatrical lighting, that they have experience with theatrical sound and props and carpentry and all of that. “If they truly take advantage of the opportunity here, they will leave here after they graduate with really developed skills to be able to go into this professionally.”

Thess Holloway plans to use his experience from The McKnight Center to create an educational program for those interested in the music industry and live entertainment.

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Chicago Symphony Orchestra Principal Bass Alexander Hanna (far left) leads a masterclass at Oklahoma State University’s Greenwood School of Music.

Striking a Chord

Chicago Symphony Orchestra shares talents at OSU masterclasses

good musician can make their instrument sing. A great one can make their instrument cry. At Oklahoma State University’s McKnight Center for the Performing Arts, students recently witnessed both during masterclasses with members of the world-renowned Chicago Symphony Orchestra. “The world needs people coming together to appreciate great art,” said Alex Hanna, CSO’s principal bassist. “The world needs people coming together and not saying things, just listening.” Hanna, who began his musical journey at age 4 with piano before finding his way to the bass at 14, represents the caliber of musician regularly visiting The McKnight Center’s stage. His path to musical excellence included attending Philadelphia’s Curtis Institute of Music before landing the principal bass

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position with the Detroit Symphony Orchestra just one month after graduation. Five years later, he earned his current position with the CSO. “When you’re the leader of an instrument section in one of the leading ensembles of the world, you have this incredible responsibility to maintain the standard,” Hanna said. “My bass section is full of virtuosi, great people that I admire so much. I do my best to support them, and they do a great job of supporting me.” Under the direction of Maestro Riccardo Muti for the past dozen years, Hanna has found both a mentor and a taskmaster. “I’ve never encountered somebody who I can trust so much yet also be challenged by so much,” Hanna said. “If anything, it’s harder tonight than it was 12 years ago. He has that amazing way of pushing you to be the absolute best,

pushing you to be better than you ever even thought you could be.” The orchestra’s visit to Stillwater included two distinct programs. One featured traditional favorites like Tchaikovsky’s Fourth Symphony, while the other showcased lesser-known works, including what CSO violist Danny Lai described as a Verdi piece that’s not often played, conducted by one of the best Verdi conductors in the world. What sets the CSO apart isn’t just its technical excellence but its collaborative spirit. “We’re known for being an especially nice orchestra,” Hanna said. “When we’re on tour, everybody’s looking out for each other. I went bowling on Wednesday night in Stillwater with the bass section. So much of what we do is communicating with our colleagues on stage.”

STORY MAK VANDRUFF | PHOTOS LUIS MEJIA

The orchestra’s legendary “CSO brass sound” remains a point of pride, but Hanna emphasized it’s not just about one section. “Our winds are incredible,” Hanna said. “We just have this chorus of allstars over there. And I’m really proud of the way the strings sound right now. This orchestra always plays at 100%, whether we’re at Carnegie Hall or Stillwater.” For students, the masterclasses were likely even more impactful than the performances themselves. “Masterclasses are fun because you’re teaching a lesson to what feels like 50 people,” Lai said. “I always try to cater my comments to what could be most helpful to whoever’s in the room.” During his session, Lai addressed common concerns among music students, from performance anxiety to artistic expression. Lai’s own journey to the CSO wasn’t typical. Unlike many of his colleagues who started young with private lessons, Lai began playing viola at age 10 in the Iowa public school system. “I actually didn’t know I wanted to be a musician,” Lai said. “I did it for fun.” That changed during his transformative experience with Mahler’s Second Symphony, leading him to pursue a double major in music performance and economics at Northwestern University.

After a year with the Colorado Symphony, he joined the CSO, where he’s been for the past decade. Hanna found similar inspiration teaching at OSU’s Greenwood School of Music. “The attention and enthusiasm of the students was inspiring,” Hanna said. “I grew up in a town similar to this ... it’s a small college town, pizza places and burger joints and karaoke. But then there’s this amazing music school here.” This commitment to excellence provides OSU students and the surrounding community with unprecedented access to world-class artistry. “The masterclass itself was phenomenal,” said Carson Pitts, an OSU saxophone student. “I performed last in the masterclass and a few of the comments he had for me changed the way that I now approach music. It was a terrific experience, and I know that it was one that all the saxophones in my studio will never forget.” For both CSO musicians, the value of live classical music transcends mere entertainment. “In a world that’s so full of distractions, stress, all kinds of things that are out of our control, to be able to put yourself in a place where you’re hearing the most incredible sounds, or maybe even no sounds, but that carry so much meaning, to be present in the

moment and share that moment with thousands of other people, that kind of experience really can’t be replicated by anything else,” Lai said. The impact of bringing highcaliber performances to Oklahoma extends beyond the concert hall. It creates a cultural bridge, connecting students and community members to a rich tradition of classical music excellence. Through masterclasses and performances, the CSO musicians demonstrate not just technical mastery but the profound human connection that makes live music so powerful. Hanna echoed this sentiment, encouraging community members to experience The McKnight Center firsthand. “Bring your friends, bring your neighbors, bring your barber, bring your kids’ piano teacher — just get them here,” Hanna said. “This is truly extraordinary.”

Scan the QR code to support The McKnight Center for the Performing Arts at OSU.

Principal Flute Stefán Ragnar Höskuldsson gestures to a student during a masterclass at Oklahoma State University.

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WITH GROUNDBREAKING DATA RESEARCH, SPEARS BUSINESS PROFESSOR LUO STRIVES TO MAKE LIFESAVING HEALTH CARE MORE ACCESSIBLE

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STORY HALLIE HART | PHOTOS GARY LAWSON

“

What I learned from Dr. Luo is the art of digging into data and understanding what patterns exist within it.” Jackson Silvey Spears Business student

In her lab, Dr. Xiao Luo (right) gives Spears Business undergraduate students opportunities to gain valuable research experience that contributes to the future of human health.

r. Xiao Luo’s research revolves around unlocking the tremendous potential of electronic medical records to help physicians and patients. Luo, a Spears School of Business management science and information systems professor, holds a doctorate in computer science from Canada’s Dalhousie University and a bachelor’s degree in the same major from China’s Huazhong University of Science and Technology. She is exploring a big question that supports Oklahoma State University’s interdisciplinary focus on public health innovation. How can data and artificial intelligence assist physicians to keep us alive? Luo started focusing on this topic while working in the Canadian health care system. There, she noticed troves of patient data that often went underutilized, like boxes of valuables stowed away in a dusty attic. “I thought, ‘OK, maybe I should come to academia to do some research, to work with physicians on how we can improve the health care system in general by utilizing those data,’” Luo

said. “That’s the first motivation. That’s why I work with physicians in the health care domain.” Luo is collaborating with Dr. Alan Sawchuk, an Indiana University professor of surgery, to create an AI-powered, personalized system allowing physicians and patients to assess and understand stroke risks. In summer 2024, her proposal was one of seven to receive a $10,000 seed grant as part of the Spears Sponsored Research Initiation Program at OSU. The program supported Luo’s study, “Clinical Decision Support for Patient Cases with Asymptomatic Carotid Artery Stenosis Using AI Models and Electronic Medical Records,” published in February 2025 in the Journal of Cardiovascular Development and Disease. Spears Business student Jackson Silvey is also an author of this paper, along with IU researchers Mackenzie Madison, Robert Brenner, Kartik Gannamaneni and Sawchuk. Luo thrives at the intersection of data-driven technology and medicine, and her latest study is one of many examples. In her lab, she works with Spears Business undergraduate

students to develop a personalized system for preventing diseases such as breast and lung cancer. They are partnering with OSU Medicine to incorporate data from Oklahoma. Luo is also creating AI-powered systems to help senior patients understand lab test results and assist first responders in providing emergency medical services for children. With her groundbreaking research, Luo strives to make lifesaving health care more accessible. Particularly in rural areas, patients might not have access to technologies such as advanced biomedical imaging systems, but electronic health records are readily available tools that do not require excessive costs. “We can analyze large amounts of data, look at the changes in the data, look at the trends in the data and do the personalized analysis,” Luo said. After arriving at a doctor’s office, a patient typically fills out paperwork in the waiting room and then answers a nurse’s questions about health history and habits. Those seemingly ordinary steps produce valuable data points that could, thanks to Luo’s models, preserve a patient’s quality of life and drastically reduce medical expenses by helping to prevent conditions such as stroke.

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According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, stroke occurs in more than

795,000 people a year in the United States. expenses associated with stroke totaled almost

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, stroke occurs in more than 795,000 people in a year in the United States. Additionally, expenses associated with stroke totaled almost $56.2 billion in the U.S. between 2019-20, per the CDC. Patients with asymptomatic carotid stenosis, a diagnosis characterized by artery blockage or narrowing, might never have externally visible health complications until a stroke occurs. Luo said ACS patients often undergo operations to prevent stroke, but the procedures are sometimes unnecessary. Occasionally, the surgeries themselves increase health risks, particularly for aging patients. Sometimes, a lifestyle change might be enough to minimize risk. No two humans are the same, so health care providers cannot rely solely on generalized guidelines to evaluate the probability of stroke. This is why Luo, Sawchuk and their research team are assessing individualized data sets from electronic health records. The AI models synthesize information that includes demographics, comorbidities, vital signs, medication history, health habits and laboratory test results, generating an educated prediction of the patient’s

$56.2 billion in the U.S. between 2019-20, per the CDC.

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(Clockwise from left): Ian Sears, Dr. Xiao Luo, Jess Zeleke and RachelKate Puckett work on developing a personalized system for disease prevention.

likelihood of experiencing a stroke. This risk assessment guides physicians in determining whether a preventative operation is necessary for an individual. In clinical settings, patients would sign waivers agreeing to input their data into the system as they already do with electronic health records. Luo is training the AI models to not only predict a patient’s stroke risk but also communicate with physicians and patients to help them understand the calculation. “If AI only produced a probability, like a 90% chance this patient is going to develop stroke, it’s not convincing because physicians need to know why,” Luo said. “AI needs to explain. How did you come to this conclusion? We call it explainable AI. In order to have physicians utilize these in the clinical setting, it has to be explainable.” For AI to communicate like a person, the machine needs human coaching. To build the model, Luo and Sawchuk reviewed data from 872 ACS patients (whose identities were not disclosed) in the Indiana University School of Medicine system from 200922. They partnered with physician residents and students who annotated

those past records, able to note if the patients did or did not experience stroke. Compared with the AI-generated risk assessments, these historical outcomes could verify the accuracy of the AI and guide Luo in fine-tuning it. Seventy percent of the initial patient data was used just to train the AI, while 30% was devoted to testing it. Silvey, a business analytics and data science graduate student, assisted Luo with this preliminary work. The researchers utilized scientific publications and clinical guidelines to equip the AI models with deep knowledge about ACS, essentially building a digital medical encyclopedia for disease prediction and analysis. “What I learned from Dr. Luo is the art of digging into data and understanding what patterns exist within it,” Silvey said. “It is incredibly easy to make assumptions based on speculative patterns one might see, but it takes patience, time and thought to come up with the answer that holistically makes the most sense.” With this knowledge base, the AI models can offer an in-depth look at medicine as opposed to scratching the surface. A busy physician typically has a short window of time to meet with one

70%

of the initial patient data was used just to train the AI, while

30% was devoted to testing it.

patient before the next appointment begins, Luo pointed out, so they might not be able to review a patient’s comprehensive health history. “The physician may only look at the recent lab test or compare it to a few previous ones,” Luo said. “For us, we can consider long-term and complex medical history by using artificial intelligence.” As Luo strives to include clinical data from electronic health records systems across the United States, she is cognizant of the difficulties. While the AI models start as neutral entities, they can, like a child’s mind, develop bias depending on how they are taught. If the sample data were to include only male patients, for example, then the model would not be adequately equipped to guide health care decisions for women. Luo has paid careful attention to these factors, ensuring to evaluate men and women in the initial patient sample and note differences that could be due to biological sex. She said the research team is also working to add more Black and Hispanic patients to the database, groups that were underrepresented in the IU records from the pilot study.

“AI needs to consume a lot of data in order to make correct decisions,” Luo said. “So, that’s a challenge of ultimately utilizing AI in the real world. We must have an unbiased algorithm, although data might be biased.” In clinical applications of the models, humans would continue to have the final say about medical decisions. While a physician would communicate with a patient about preventative measures, the AI model would enhance the physician’s knowledge, offering guidelines based on medical literature and the patient’s risk factors. “When AI communicates with patients, we don’t want to override physicians’ communication because AI does not have enough sense to consider the ethics,” Luo said. “As a physician, you need to have enough empathy when you talk to the patients, in how you deal with situations. We have AI as the assistant, so the physician will direct AI.” Once these “assistants” are sharp enough for clinical settings, they can apply to numerous areas of medicine. As a Spears Business professor since August 2023, Luo is already exemplifying the difference-making potential of the school’s elevated focus on faculty grants. “I feel very appreciative to receive the seed grant, and I also feel very proud to work with the school that provides faculty the seed grants to advance their research,” Luo said. “It’s an important research collaboration with different institutions and across different departments at OSU. “This seed grant not only advances faculty research and encourages more collaborations but can also provide students opportunities to research with me in my lab to understand how we can utilize AI to advance human health to improve health care outcomes.”

Scan the code for more information on OSU’s One Health initiatives.

S TAT E M AG A Z I N E .O K S TAT E . E D U 43

2024–2025 The OSU Alumni Association is proud to honor 25 students with the 2024-2025 Outstanding Seniors Award. This award recognizes students who distinguish themselves through academic achievements; campus and community activities; academic, athletic and extracurricular honors and awards; scholarships; and work ethic. After reviewing the students’ applications, the Alumni Association Student Awards Committee met with 50 of the Seniors of Significance who were announced in November 2024 and selected 25 for this prestigious honor.

LANDRY BAKER Edmond, Oklahoma Political science

MCKENZIE BEESLEY Sand Springs, Oklahoma Hospitality and tourism management

LAUREN BINGHAM Tulsa, Oklahoma Nutritional sciences: allied health

AUDREY BISHOP Van Alstyne, Texas Plant and soil sciences

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During her time at OSU, Baker served as student body vice president, was a Student Government supreme court justice and a Spears School of Business Student Council member. Baker was also the vice president of finance and a member of the steering committee for Freshman Follies.

After graduation, she plans to attend law school with aspirations of becoming a judge.

While at OSU, Beesley was a member of Eta Sigma Delta – Hospitality Honor Society and a recipient of the President’s Honor Roll. She was also the executive chair of the Wine Forum and the front of house manager for the Distinguished Chef Series Scholarship Benefit. Beesley was also a semifinalist in the Sustainable Hospitality Challenge.

After graduation, she will pursue a career in corporate events.

During her time at OSU, Bingham served on committees to plan philanthropy events for Court Appointed Special Advocates. She participated in both Freshman Follies and Varsity Revue to raise money for Stillwater High School. Bingham was a part of the OSU Honors College. She has also been a weekly volunteer in Life Church Kids.

Bingham graduated in December of 2024 from the OSU Honors College with Summa Cum Laude distinction and plans to attend nursing school.

Bishop served as senate vice speaker for the OSU Student Government Association, a member of the Oklahoma Intercollegiate Legislature and a member of Sigma Alpha. She also served as an intern for the National FFA Convention and was a member of the Freshman in Transition Living Learning Program at OSU.

After graduation, Bishop plans to attend law school.

STORY L I B B Y R AY | PHOTOS ELLIE PIPER AND GARY LAWSON

AMY CAMPBELL Broken Arrow, Oklahoma Political science

KARSTYN CANTRELL Collinsville, Oklahoma Agricultural communications

LUISA CLAUSEN Curitiba, Parana, Brazil Multimedia Journalism

ELYSE CRONIC Edmond, Oklahoma Chemistry (pre-health) and microbiology

KATIE DILLON Louisburg, Kansas Agribusiness

During her time at OSU, Campbell served as president of Pi Sigma Alpha Honor Society. She was a Cambridge Scholar and a Wentz Undergraduate Research Scholar. Campbell served as an orientation leader and studied abroad in Florence, Italy, and in the United Kingdom.

After graduation, she plans on attending graduate school to pursue a master’s degree in international security.

During her time at OSU, Cantrell was a member of the Student Network Board from 2020-24. She served as the central region vice president of the National FFA organization. She was named to the Mortar Board Top 20 Freshmen in 2021. Cantrell also served as the Ferguson College of Agriculture Student Council vice president and was a member of Homecoming Steering on the athletic and parade committees.

Upon graduating from OSU, she plans to enter a law program and earn her Juris doctorate with a greater goal of representing the agricultural industry as a public servant.

While at OSU, Clausen worked as a news editor for The O’Colly before serving as editor-in-chief. She also served as the president of the Society of Professional Journalists and is an Oklahoma Press Association Award winner.

After graduation, she plans to earn a master’s degree in international journalism in hopes of becoming an international correspondent.

Cronic earned the Wentz Research Scholarship and attended the 2024 National Conference of Undergraduate Research. In 2023, she was part of the Special Olympics Lions Club International Opening Eyes Program. In 2022, she attended the National Student Leadership Forum. Cronic served as a volunteer at three Red Shoe Rendezvous Gala benefiting the Ronald McDonald House Charities in Oklahoma City. Cronic was also accepted to the Oklahoma Scholar Leadership Enrichment Program (OSLEP) Perspectives in Genetics: Individuals and Populations.

After graduation, she plans to attend medical school with the goal of becoming an interventional cardiologist.

During her time at OSU, Dillon served on the Ferguson College of Agriculture Student Council and worked as a teaching assistant for agricultural sales and product marketing. She was also a McKnight Scholar and was on the Agricultural Economics Department quiz bowl team. Dillon also served as a women’s small group leader at Countryside Church.

After graduation, she will be pursuing a master’s degree in agricultural economics at OSU.

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While at OSU, Do founded the EF4 Trombone Quartet, where he enjoys performing for young music students in Oklahoma public schools and has also traveled to Chile to perform by invitation. In 2022, Do won the International Trombone Association Kai Winding Jazz Trombone Ensemble Competition and in 2023 he won the Trombonanza Tenor Trombone Concerto Competition in Argentina.

After graduation, he plans to attend graduate school.

Dorrell served as vice president and propulsion lead for the Space Cowboys, conducted rocket propulsion research as a Wentz Scholar and worked with the Oklahoma Aerospace Institute for Research and Education. He volunteered as a Camp Cowboy counselor and revived and lead the W5YJ Amateur Radio Club.

After graduation, he plans to pursue a doctoral degree in rocket propulsion, aiming to contribute to advancements in space exploration and technology.

During his time at OSU, Dowers served as president of the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics on campus and was the student lead for the AIAA Regional Conference. He also sat on console in NASA’s flight operations room for rendezvous operations with the International Space Station. While at NASA, Dowers tested components for later use on the Moon. Dowers led an undergraduate team for Micro-G-NEXT at the Johnson Space Center in Houston and visited middle schools and high schools as a part of Micro-G-NEXT.

After graduation, he plans to pursue a career in the space industry.

While at OSU, England served as an ambassador for the microbiology department. She was named as one of OSU’s Top 20 Freshmen. England served Owasso, Oklahoma Microbiology, cell and molecular as Microbiology Club president. She was also a Goldwater Scholarship nominee and participated biology in undergraduate research.

After graduation, England plans to join a Ph.D. program in microbiology.

During her time at OSU, Faver interned at Scottish Rite Children’s Hospital observing surgeries and working at a level 1 trauma center. She also spent time with hospice patients. She was active in her church, leading a Bible study and mentoring freshman and sophomore women. Faver also attended a mission trip to Bologna, Italy.

After graduation, she plans to attend medical school to become a physician.

ETHAN DO Edmond, Oklahoma Music performance

TREYTON DORRELL Jones, Oklahoma Aerospace engineering and mechanical engineering

LANDON DOWERS Edmond, Oklahoma Aerospace engineering and mechanical engineering

EMMA ENGLAND

GRACIE FAVER Fort Worth, Texas Biology (pre-medicine)

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ASHLYN GOAD Okay, Oklahoma Political science

KYLIE HAMMACK Tulsa, Oklahoma Economics and political science

LORYN GRACE HENDRIX Morrilton, Arkansas Industrial engineering and management

PAYTON IRICK Seminole, Oklahoma Agricultural communications

JAMES LEE Oklahoma City Biosystems engineering

Goad spent time as a research assistant for Dr. Haruka Nagao, a team leader for the Youth Volunteer Corps of Muskogee, and the academic achievement chair for her Panhellenic sorority. She has served her Stillwater community as a volunteer for the Stillwater Humane Society, Our Daily Bread and participated in Into the Streets. Goad spent a summer representing Oklahoma State at the Summer Policy Institute.

After graduation she plans to pursue a master’s in public health.

While at OSU, Hammack was a Harry S. Truman Scholarship finalist. She was the director for data analytics for Wishes for Water and a Wentz Research Scholar in 2024-2025. She was a Women for OSU Wirt June Newman Scholar in 2024-2025 and a winner of the Undergraduate Library Research Award. Hammack was also a finalist for the Marshall Scholarship.

After graduation, she plans to attend graduate school to study international security, development and data analytics.

During her time at OSU, Hendrix served as College of Engineering, Agriculture and Technology Student Council president and as CEAT Local Leaders coordinator. She is a McKnight Scholar and a George and Donna Nigh Leadership Scholar. Hendrix also served as OSU chapter president for the Institute of Industrial and Systems Engineers.

After graduation, she plans to pursue a master’s degree from the University of Cambridge through the W.W. Allen Scholars Program.

Irick was a member of the President’s Leadership Council. Her writing was published in an awardwinning magazine, and she studied abroad in Australia and New Zealand, winning two national photography contests with pictures she took while abroad. Irick volunteered as a prevention ambassador for OSU’s 1 is 2 Many program and for OSU, 4-H, and Future Farmers of America. She also interned at TulsaPeople Magazine and in the Office of the President’s Chilly Cowboy Program raising money for the Special Olympics.

After graduation, she plans to pursue a master’s degree in international agriculture.

During his time at OSU, Lee was awarded a Wentz Research Scholar in 2023 and 2024, he was crowned Mr. Asian OSU in 2023, and he was also named to the Mortar Board Top 20 Freshmen. He was a Purdue Engineering GradTrack Scholar and a Udall Institutional nominee. Lee was also on the OSU Homecoming Royalty Court in 2024.

After graduation, he plans to pursue a master’s degree in water treatment engineering.

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JENNIFER MARTINEZ Stillwater, Oklahoma Management information systems

MADDIE MEINER Highland Village, Texas Biology and microbiology, cell and molecular biology

TONY MORINA Bartlesville, Oklahoma Nutritional sciences

VICTORIA SMITH Houston Nutritional sciences

JOSH STEPHENS Keller, Texas Aerospace administration and operations: professional pilot

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Martinez is a first-generation student. She participated in the Semester at Sea study abroad program and was a Tom Love’s Scholar Recipient. She also volunteered with St. Francis Xavier Youth and actively participated in yearly events to raise money for Breast Cancer Research and Awareness. Martinez led in Student Government Association’s executive cabinet and was named a Top 5 MSIS Senior.

After graduation, she will begin her career as a global trade compliance analyst with Bell and hopes to pursue a law degree.

While at OSU, Meiner sat as the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee president and a Big 12 representative. She volunteers for the Big Brother Big Sister Organization of Oklahoma and was a coordinator for the Nike N7 event. Meiner also performed undergraduate research in the microbiology lab.

After graduation, she plans to conduct medical laboratory research.

During his time at OSU, Morina was awarded Freshman of the Year in the College of Education and Human Sciences. He worked as an intern for Men’s Mental Health and was a member of Phi Delta Theta. He participated in Freshman Follies, Varsity Revue and Spring Sing philanthropy steering. Morina also attended the Global Medical Brigade, spending nine days in Honduras.

After graduation, he plans to attend medical school and become a physician.

While at OSU, Smith was a four-year member of the OSU Alumni Association’s Student Network Board and the 2023 member-of-the-year. She was a Housing and Residential Life student staff member. She was also a Student Government Association senator and Oklahoma A&M Board of Regents liaison. Smith was a 2023-24 Wentz Scholar and had her research published in Open Research Oklahoma. She was an Orange C.O.R.D. recipient for documenting 400+ service hours and national president of the Children of the American Revolution raising over $63,000.

After graduation, she hopes to pursue a master’s degree in nutritional sciences and earn her license as a registered dietitian.

During his time at OSU, Stephens served as a student recruitment assistant for the College of Education and Human Sciences and as CEHS student council president. He was also the director of OSU’s Speakers Board. He volunteered in the Stillwater-based philanthropy Into the Streets and was on the Afghan Resettlement Program.

After graduation, he plans to remain in Stillwater as a flight instructor while obtaining a master’s degree in aviation and space.

SARAH TEEMAN Stillwater, Oklahoma Microbiology, cell and molecular biology (pre-medical professional)

Teeman was a member of the Niblack Research Scholars Program and gained international research experience in Vanuatu. She was named to the OSU Mortar Board Top 20 Freshmen and graduated in the fall of 2024 with a 4.0 GPA. She interned at University of California, Davis for maternal child health career and research initiatives for student enhancement.

After graduation, she plans to attend medical school and focus her career on the intersection between medicine and public health.

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ALUMNI A S S O C I AT I O N

34% increase in graduate program enrollment

At OSU Center for Health Sciences, we set another record enrollment for our graduate programs with a 34% jump from last spring. High-demand degrees in Forensic Sciences, Health Care Administration, Physician Assistant, Biomedical Sciences and Athletic Training are leading this growth, many of which are offered online. To learn more, visit medicine.okstate.edu/graduate

haping Rural Vet Med's uture

First group of scholarship awardees prepare to aid areas in need

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n the quiet corners of rural America, where the nearest neighbor may be miles away, a small but vital group of professionals keeps the heartbeat of agriculture steady. They are the rural veterinarians — often working long hours, in all weather, sometimes with little fanfare — tending to the animals that provide food, fiber and livelihood to thousands of families. The work is demanding, but the rewards are often intangible, rooted in the deep relationships veterinarians build with the farmers and ranchers who depend on them. Rural veterinarians are not just animal practitioners; they are embedded in the communities they serve and are integral parts of the fabric of rural America. At the Oklahoma State University College of Veterinary Medicine,

cultivating the next generation of rural veterinarians is a top priority. “At OSU, we are deeply committed to producing practice-ready large and mixed animal veterinarians who can step directly into the field and make an impact,” said Dr. Rosslyn Biggs, CVM assistant professor and director of the Oklahoma Rural Veterinary Scholarship and Loan Forgiveness Program. “We know these veterinarians play a critical role in rural communities, and we want to ensure our graduates are prepared to meet the unique challenges of rural practice with confidence.” This summer, the Oklahoma Legislative and Executive branches passed HB 3196 — the Dr. Lee Denney Act. It was created to provide financial support for students pursuing a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree at

STORY TAYLOR BACON | PHOTOS ELLIE PIPER

“Through this scholarship program, we’re not just training veterinarians; we’re cultivating the future of rural Oklahoma.” Dr. Lee Denney, 1978 CVM alumna

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OSU CVM is focused on graduating practice-ready veterinarians who are prepared to step into rural communities and make an immediate impact.

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OSU to practice in rural Oklahoma communities and receive training to meet the needs of livestock producers. Denney, a 1978 CVM alumna, expanded her horizons from the veterinary realm to go into public service. Throughout her illustrious career, she also served as the speaker pro tempore in the Oklahoma House of Representatives. “For far too long, our rural communities have struggled with a critical shortage of veterinarians who understand the challenges of agricultural livestock,” Denney said. “This bill isn’t just about financial support for students — it’s about sustaining the lifeblood of Oklahoma’s agricultural economy. By investing in these young veterinarians, we’re ensuring that our farmers and ranchers will continue to have the essential professional support they need to maintain healthy herds and profitable operations. “Through this scholarship program, we’re not just training veterinarians; we’re cultivating the future of rural Oklahoma.” The scholarship program prioritizes Oklahoma residents who are passionate about large animal care and committed to practicing in communities with populations of 25,000 or fewer. The

scholarships are designated up to $25,000 annually for up to four years. “We are incredibly grateful to the Oklahoma Legislature for their support of our college, students and rural Oklahoma,” Biggs said. “It’s not just an investment in education; it’s an investment that will support Oklahoma agriculture and strengthen our rural communities.” The first scholarship recipients from the Oklahoma Rural Veterinary Scholarship and Loan Forgiveness Program are class of 2025 students Taylor Cartmell, Lauren Dixon, Jacob Gollihare, Mandy Lawson and Will Shelby, along with class of 2026 students Cassidy Barry, Noah Edwards and Eli Pool. “Rural veterinary medicine is something I believe is a crucial part of our state,” Shelby said. “Not only do I feel like I can make a difference in the role as a rural veterinarian, but something I believe is one of the biggest joys of this career path is the personal relationships you get to build with your clients.” As an Oklahoma resident from a rural, farming community, Dixon is passionate about helping farmers and ranchers. “Growing up on a commercial cattle ranch in Wyandotte, Oklahoma, I was

able to see all aspects of the industry and fell in love with herd health,” Dixon said. “It was a fascinating concept to me that even the smallest of changes in a herd health management program could make a large impact on production and profitability.” Since attending OSU CVM, Dixon has only grown her passion for this area of veterinary medicine. “If you would have asked me when I began veterinary school why I wanted to be a vet, it would have been a simple answer of I like animals and want to help them,” she said. “Going through school and truly finding a passion for food animal medicine, my answer to this question now would be that veterinary medicine is crucial to the forward progression of the food animal industry, and I want to be a part of that.” Some students, like Cartmell, witnessed firsthand the shortage of rural veterinarians. “Being raised in Oklahoma, I was quickly exposed to the shortage of veterinarians in rural communities,” Cartmell said. “This inspired me to pursue rural veterinary care and help mitigate some of the shortage.” As a fifth-generation farmer, Edwards experienced similar challenges raising cattle in western Oklahoma. Growing up near Calumet

Will Shelby operates the chute while Mandy Lawson reads a heifer’s ear tag ID.

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and having farms in Carnegie, Edwards said he’s had to drive an hour to have a cow checked. He’s also had times where there was no available veterinarian at all. He recognizes the problem and said he hopes to be a part of the solution. For these students, OSU was the perfect fit for pursuing their dreams and supporting them in becoming large animal veterinarians. “OSU has supported me in my journey to becoming a mixed animal veterinarian by offering core and elective classes that not only focus on the knowledge of treating production animals but also the hands-on experience I will need after graduation,” Barry said. Many recipients attributed their success to the guidance and mentorship of the exceptional faculty members at OSU CVM. “Individuals like Drs. Rosslyn Biggs, Lionel Dawson and Jared Taylor are invaluable assets to their students,” Lawson said. “The foundational relationships built with them serve us in so many capacities. From recommendations for externships and introduction to future peers at conferences, I will never be able to put into words the full impact they have had on me and my education.” Students are prepared for their careers through a blend of rigorous classroom instruction and a wide range of extracurricular opportunities that allow them to practice and refine their skills outside of the classroom. “OSU CVM has an outstanding system of clubs and organizations, many of which are large animal-based,” Pool said. “It is through these organizations as well as large animal electives that I have been able to expand my clinical understanding and skills to be prepared as a fourth-year student heading into clinical rotations.” As the recipients reflected on their veterinary school experiences and the support received through this program, they expressed gratitude for the individuals and organizations who made this opportunity possible. “This program is a blessing, not only to myself as being one of the first to receive this award, but also for future recipients who are looking to begin a

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career in rural veterinary medicine,” Dixon said. “This award will allow me to begin my career with financial stability and reduce the burden of my student loans.” Dixon plans to pay it forward by advocating for animal health in her community. Edwards echoed her sentiments. “It is a huge blessing to my family and me,” he said. “It feels like a giant weight has been lifted off my shoulders.” Shelby described this experience as a huge honor. “This is something I don’t take lightly, and I hope that I can contribute to the state’s need for rural veterinarians in a quality way,” he said. He plans to return to southern Oklahoma and open a food animal practice. “Growing up, I was fortunate enough to get to follow my dad around quite often on his workdays as a food animal veterinarian,” he said. “I saw the difference and relationships that are products of an involved food animal veterinarian, and the culmination of these things helped me decide this was the career for me.” Lawson is looking forward to developing strong roots in the community she ends up in and building relationships with the producers she’ll be working with. “I believe that as a veterinarian in a rural community, I have the distinct opportunity to pour into and invest in the next generation of agriculturists as they begin realizing and pursuing their dreams,” Lawson said. “Through striving for excellence and looking for opportunities to be a value-added asset to the students, community members and producers I am working with and for, I am eager to be able to give back to my community.”

Scan the QR code to support the OSU College of Veterinary Medicine.

From left: Will Shelby, Dr. Lee Denney and Mandy Lawson discuss the need for rural veterinarians and the students’ future plans for practice.

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REDDIRT

REvival OSU alumnus Josh Crutchmer on the return of Cross Canadian Ragweed and Oklahoma’s biggest concert yet

he first guitar chord cracked through the air as the sun dipped behind the west end zone. A warm breeze carried the scent of sweat, dust and anticipation across Boone Pickens Stadium, where 45,000 boots stomped not for football, but for Red Dirt legends. Cross Canadian Ragweed was back for one electric weekend in Stillwater — right where it all began. In a town built on music, at a university deeply tied to Red Dirt’s rise, this concert was more than just a show. It was a homecoming. Stillwater, Oklahoma, has long been the heartbeat of Red Dirt — not just the name for the tough clay blanketing its backroads and pastures, but for the genre it birthed. This year, the community that launched a movement welcomed history: a four-night reunion of Cross

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Canadian Ragweed, one of Red Dirt’s most legendary bands, shaking the walls of Boone Pickens Stadium and echoing through the roots of the genre itself. For Oklahoma State University alumnus and Rolling Stone contributor Josh Crutchmer, the announcement of this concert wasn’t just exciting — it was almost unthinkable. After years of covering Red Dirt and country music, Crutchmer believed a Ragweed reunion was off the table. Until, suddenly, it wasn’t. “I didn’t actually think this band would ever reunite,” Crutchmer said. “Literally, a year ago, I was on the phone with Cody Canada, and he told me there was no chance. What I didn’t realize was that just putting that in Rolling Stone set off a chain of events that ultimately led to this happening.”

STORY PAGE MINDEDAHL | PHOTOS GARY LAWSON AND KENDALL NODORFT

what is Red Dirt music?

it’s a genre with roots in Stillwater, characterized by its blend of traditional country, folk, blues and rock, often with lyrics focusing on rural life and storytelling.

Boone Pickens Stadium welcomed more than 150,000 concertgoers over four days during the Boys From Oklahoma Concert Series.

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Red Dirt Roots

Cross Canadian Ragweed, formed in the mid-1990s, became the defining sound of Red Dirt music, blending rock, country and raw Oklahoma storytelling. The quartet of Cody Canada, Grady Cross, Randy Ragsdale and Jeremy Plato all have Oklahoma roots. The band has known each other since grade school and began playing in Ragsdale’s home every night of the week under the guidance of Ragsdale’s father, Johnny, who worked with musicians throughout the state. After high school, the band moved to Stillwater; the rest is history. Ragweed’s rise coincided with a golden era of Stillwater’s music scene — one that shaped a generation of OSU students and the genre itself. It all started in the late ’70s and early ’80s with a ragtag group of songwriters holed up in a farmhouse outside of Stillwater. Led by Bob Childers, the man many call the godfather of Red

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“I didn’t actually think this band would ever reunite. Literally, a year ago, I was on the phone with Cody Canada, and he told me there was no chance. What I didn’t realize was that just putting that in Rolling Stone set off a chain of events that ultimately led to this happening.” Josh Crutchmer,

Oklahoma State University alumnus And Rolling Stone contributor

Cross Canadian Ragweed frontman Cody Canada plays in front of a sold-out crowd at Boone Pickens Stadium.

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Dirt, they built a scene fueled by latenight jam sessions and a shared love of storytelling. That house, simply known as “The Farm,” became the genre’s incubator. By the time Cross Canadian Ragweed rolled into town in the ’90s, Red Dirt had outgrown its backporch beginnings. The college bars along Washington Street — most famously The Wormy Dog Saloon — became the launchpad for bands that blended country, rock and a little bit of rebellion. Ragweed, along with acts like Jason Boland & The Stragglers and Stoney LaRue, took the sound beyond Oklahoma, turning Stillwater into a Red Dirt Mecca. Even after Ragweed’s breakup in 2010, the music never left. Turnpike Troubadours, Mike McClure and countless others carried the torch while a new wave of artists, from Flatland Cavalry to Koe Wetzel, kept the fire burning.

A Homecoming Years in the Making

For a decade, Ragweed was the soundtrack to every Stillwater bar, house party and tailgate. The band’s impact on OSU culture resembled Pearl Jam’s grip on Seattle in the ’90s. Then, in 2010, the band called it quits, leaving fans with little hope of a return. But last fall, something changed. “We had tried to put something together in 2024, but ultimately, it just didn’t work out,” said Kyle Waters, OSU Athletics senior associate athletic director of facilities. “The president of the promoter group we are working with, Russell Doussan, was in Nashville with Cross Canadian’s agents and tested their interest.” It was a quick turn of events once OSU was given the green light. “They came back to us in September of 2024 and said, ‘If we were ever gonna get back together, we would want to do it here in Stillwater.’ So, after that, we had our staff working long, hard hours to put everything together and get tickets for sale on Oct. 3,” Waters said.

For the band, this wasn’t just another show — it was a full-circle moment years in the making. Cody Canada and The Departed were performing their annual Homecoming weekend set at Eskimo Joe’s. Unbeknownst to the crowd, all four original members of Ragweed were in town, reuniting behind the scenes. As the band stood together midfield at Boone Pickens Stadium before the OSU Homecoming football game, the ovation they received planted the seed they needed to take in everything that was about to happen. “That weekend was everything,” Crutchmer said. “It cut through 15 years of being broken up in a day-and-a-half. And after that, it was just a matter of when, not if.”

“That weekend was everything. It cut through 15 years of being broken up in a day and a half. And after that, it was just a Their Biggest Stage Yet matter of when, not if.” Josh Crutchmer

Fast forward a few months and what started as a one-night-only event quickly became a full-blown festival. What was initially expected to sell around 32,000 tickets ballooned to over 170,000 — and could have gone even higher. Cross Canadian Ragweed shared the weekend with Turnpike Troubadours, Jason Boland & The Stragglers, Stoney LaRue and many more acts around the OSU campus. “Their big dream was maybe selling out one night,” Crutchmer said. “Now we’ve done four. It’s a level of success that even they couldn’t have imagined.” At one point, more than 217,000 people were in the ticket queue — a staggering number that captured just how high the anticipation was for this legendary event. “I had three laptops going, my phone and a tablet, and still waited over five hours in that ticket queue,” said Megan Rollins, a 2002 OSU graduate. “That little walking guy on the loading screen kept me on my toes. But honestly, I would’ve waited twice as long — Ragweed back in Stillwater? That’s history, and I wasn’t missing it.” The concert wasn’t just a reunion; it was also a massive fundraising opportunity. A portion of ticket sales will go toward OSU Athletics’ Name, Image and Likeness efforts, supporting

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From left: Turnpike Troubadours fiddler, Kyle Nix, frontman, Evan Felker and Stoney LaRue perform during The Boys From Oklahoma concerts.

student-athletes in the new era of college sports. “It’s just a great event to create revenue that wasn’t there before to be put in the pool,” Waters said. “It’s not found money, but it will be money well spent.” NIL laws were enacted at the beginning of the decade and have transformed the college game. Studentathletes now earn money for their play, with recruiting becoming a year-round effort. Between NIL and the shifting conference landscape, OSU must navigate these waters with the rest of the country. The new NIL laws have caused a need for more funding to entice players to come to Stillwater, which is why the concert is so imperative to success in this new world of college athletics.

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“It’s not just about nostalgia,” Crutchmer said. “This will have a lasting impact on OSU and its athletes. It’s rare to see music and sports collide in a way that directly benefits both.”

A Scene That Never Left

While this reunion is monumental, it’s also a testament to Red Dirt music’s staying power. In the years since Ragweed disbanded, the genre has only grown. Bands like Turnpike Troubadours and Koe Wetzel continue to name-drop Ragweed in their lyrics, cementing their place as legends. “There’s an aura around Ragweed now,” Crutchmer said. “They became these mythical figures. Younger fans who never saw them live now wish they

had. And those who did see them never stopped talking about it.” Now, for one long Stillwater weekend, past and present Red Dirt fans finally got their moment. The red dirt on the roads churned with all the truck traffic coming home, echoes of the Wormy Dog came alive, and a new era of concerts in Stillwater is hopefully on the horizon. Who would have thought all of this fervor was just a dream not that long ago? “This was the biggest party Stillwater had ever seen,” Crutchmer said. “It’s like winning a high-stakes Bedlam game — except this time, we got to celebrate for four straight nights.”

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Wavin'

WHEAT

OSU AND OKLAHOMA GENETICS INC. PARTNERSHIP BENEFITS WHEAT INDUSTRY

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STORY MANDY GROSS | PHOTOS MITCHELL ALCALA

“Oklahoma, where the wind comes sweepin’ down the plain, and the wavin’ wheat can sure smell sweet when the wind comes right behind the rain.” These lyrics from “Oklahoma!” by Richard Rodgers and Oscar Hammerstein II describe iconic images of the state, but for many, it’s a way of life. Oklahoma is known for its rolling and expansive wheat fields because wheat is one of the top crops produced in the state. More than 70% of all wheat acres are planted with varieties developed at Oklahoma State University, including 36 varieties commercialized by the university since 2000. “Wheat is the cornerstone of Oklahoma’s agricultural economy,” said Dr. Jayson Lusk, vice president and dean of OSU Agriculture. “It not only supports our local farmers but also contributes significantly to the state’s overall economic health. The advancements in wheat research and production techniques at OSU are pivotal in ensuring sustainable and profitable farming practices for future generations.” Once a new variety is developed at OSU, the university works with entities like Oklahoma Genetics Inc. to license the wheat variety for marketability.

ABOUT OKLAHOMA GENETICS INC.

OGI is a nonprofit corporation comprised of Oklahoma seed producers and processors who distribute pedigreed seeds in Oklahoma and surrounding states. This means every dollar generated from seed sale royalties goes directly or indirectly back into the breeding program and/or marketing infrastructure, said Mark Hodges, OGI executive director. The organization plays a significant role in the wheat industry and is also the licensee for the peanut program in Oklahoma. “OGI serves as the direct marketing link between OSU wheat genetics and seed producers across the Central and Southern Great Plains,” Hodges said. “OGI’s mission is to educate our producers on the importance of being good stewards of exciting new plant breeding technology designed to meet current and future consumer demands and to give producers the tools to succeed.” The corporation offers full and provisional memberships, where members work to promote stewardship and market the use of improved genetic traits and benefits of quality pedigreed wheat seed.

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OGI also promotes educational programs and scientific research for the benefit of crop producers and markets, as well as plant breeding programs to meet current and future consumer demands.

COMMERCIALIZING A NEW WHEAT VARIETY

Dr. Brett Carver, regents professor and wheat genetics chair in the OSU Department of Plant and Soil Sciences, said producing a new OSU wheat variety involves several key steps: breeding and selection, agronomic and quality testing, DNA analysis, data analysis, release and distribution, and ongoing research. Carver, Big 12 Faculty Member of the Year, leads OSU’s Wheat Improvement Team, which uses traditional breeding techniques and modern genetic tools to develop new wheat varieties. This involves crossbreeding different wheat lines to combine desirable traits such as disease resistance, drought tolerance and high yield potential. The Wheat Improvement Team consists of scientists from various disciplines, including genetics, agronomy and plant pathology. “Our breadth of expertise enables wheat growers to know how new OSU wheat varieties perform under the broadest possible environmental and agronomic conditions,” Carver said. “This collaborative approach ensures that OSU wheat varieties are wellrounded and genetically diverse.”

As potential new varieties are developed, they undergo extensive field testing across various locations in Oklahoma and beyond. More controlled testing occurs in greenhouses and laboratories to fill knowledge gaps created by missed opportunities in natural field environments. Researchers look at factors such as grain yield, quality and resistance to pests and diseases. “This intense level of scrutiny is what I feel gives OSU wheat varieties staying power in Oklahoma,” Carver said. “Varieties developed at OSU for the specific conditions of Oklahoma provide confidence to wheat growers that their operation is sustainable and profitable.” After rigorous testing and seed production through the Oklahoma Foundation Seed Stocks, the best-performing wheat varieties are released to seed producers. OSU works closely with companies like OGI to ensure high-quality seeds are available for commercial production. The process is continuous, with ongoing research and development to improve existing varieties and develop new ones that meet the evolving needs of wheat producers and, more recently, consumers. Creating a new wheat variety typically takes about 11 years from the initial cross to release as a commercial variety. While the duration has stayed the same, two things have changed, Carver said. “First, varieties are launched with far greater confidence due to the deeper involvement of the Wheat Improvement Team and other scientists in the development process,” he said. “Second, the time from launch to commercial grain production is shorter because foundation seed increase is initiated earlier in the breeding process.” The result is a shorter time from when variety development starts in the greenhouse to when commercial grain hits the elevators, Carver said. “With few exceptions, I have not felt compelled to speed up the clock on final field testing,” he said. “Improper vetting of OSU wheat varieties could place growers at even greater risk than where they stand with nature and commodity prices.”

Dr. Brett Carver, Big 12 Faculty Member of the Year, leads OSU's Wheat Improvement Team, a group of scientists who work together to develop new wheat varieties. The process of creating a new variety takes about 11 years.

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"OSU has the premier wheat breeding program in the nation with a wheat breeder and wheat breeding team that are the envy of virtually every other U.S. wheat breeding program.”

Mark Hodges OGI Executive Director WORKING WITH OSU

OGI collaborates closely with the Wheat Improvement Team to enhance wheat production in Oklahoma. Carver took over the modern wheat breeding program in 1998, and 27 years later, he is one of the most recognized faces nationwide in wheat breeding and genetics. “Dr. Carver is a dynamic leader not only in the state but also nationally and internationally,” Hodges said. “He is recognized as leading one of the top wheat breeding programs in the world that delivers immeasurable value to the producer, industry, consumer and the university.” OGI is responsible for licensing and distributing the wheat varieties developed by the Wheat Improvement Team, ensuring high-quality seeds are available to farmers and ranchers and helping them access the latest advancements in wheat breeding. In addition, OGI works to commercialize wheat varieties developed by OSU by promoting these varieties to farmers, ranchers and milling companies. This ensures the benefits of OSU research extend from the agricultural community to the retail market. In return, OGI provides valuable feedback from farmers, ranchers and the market to the Wheat Improvement Team, helping the researchers understand the performance of their varieties in real-world conditions and guiding future breeding efforts. “The collaboration between OGI and the Wheat Improvement Team ensures that the wheat varieties developed at OSU are effectively brought to market and benefit the local agricultural community,” Hodges said. OGI created a pulling force on OSU wheat genetics that did not exist before the mid-2000s, Carver said. “Before then, we were pushing OSU germplasm into the open market and hoping something would stick,” he said. “A healthy wheat seed industry, underpinned by OGI, has been the key to shaping and motivating OSU wheat research and education to where it is today.”

FUNDING THE FUTURE

Not only does OGI support the Wheat Improvement Team’s research efforts by providing funding and research, but OGI is also investing in the future of OSU’s wheat breeding program. A $5 million gift from OGI helped jumpstart a fundraising initiative for the new Agronomy Discovery Center, a planned upgrade to the existing Agronomy Research Station at OSU. “OSU has the premier wheat breeding program in the nation with a wheat breeder and wheat breeding team that are the envy of virtually every other U.S. wheat breeding program,” Hodges said. “This is a testament to the quality of the program.” Discoveries made at the research station significantly impact the state’s $42 billion agricultural industry and influence food security worldwide. Plans for the Agronomy Discovery Center include the construction of a new headhouse, 12 research greenhouses and a dynamic and multipurpose Research and Education Center. The new center will also house laboratory spaces for the Wheat Quality Laboratory; Soil, Water and Forage Analytical Laboratory; and the Plant Disease and Insect Diagnostic Laboratory. “We are incredibly thankful to OGI for enabling us to begin the initial phase of the Agronomy Discovery Center, which will provide the infrastructure we need to compete in the modern era and achieve our mission of feeding and nourishing the world,” Lusk said. Carver said the new construction could not have happened at a more opportune time. “OSU wheat improvement — both practical and the more basic components — is as strong as ever,” he said. “And there is strength yet to be gained with new and consumer-relevant traits that create value throughout the wheat supply chain, starting with our seed and grain producers. A shared progress is a lasting progress.”

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50 YEARS ON THE AIR

“We never get through a season having done it all.” ‘OKLAHOMA GARDENING’ – TELEVISION YOU’VE GROWN TO LOVE

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STORY TRISHA GEDON | PHOTOS MITCHELL ALCALA, TODD JOHNSON AND JUDY KAYS

ong before cable television, social media and streaming services, a show dedicated to hands-on gardening education in Oklahoma debuted in 1975 on the Oklahoma Educational Television Authority channel in Oklahoma City. When Oklahoma State University Extension horticulturist Joe Maxon first hauled plants from Stillwater to the OETA studio to shoot the brand-new, live TV program, “Oklahoma Gardening,” he likely had no idea of the impact it would have. He was laying the groundwork for a show now celebrating its golden anniversary and viewed worldwide. “‘Oklahoma Gardening’ has been a cornerstone of OSU Agriculture and the community, providing invaluable Extension resources, research-based information and gardening inspiration to countless viewers over the past five decades,” said Dr. Jayson Lusk, vice president and dean of OSU Agriculture. “This milestone is a testament to the dedication and passion of everyone involved in the show, and we look forward to many more years of cultivating a love for gardening in Oklahoma and beyond.” The faces in front of the camera have changed throughout the decades, with 11 people serving as hosts. Each brought their own style while nurturing the groundwork of their predecessors to produce an awardwinning show with a faithful following. Casey Hentges, current “Oklahoma Gardening” host, said the show’s history will be featured throughout this 50th season. Special segments will revisit previous hosts while offering a glimpse of the future of horticulture. “We’re staying true to our roots of being a hands-on learning program, but we’re also doing some fun, anniversary-related things this season,” she said. “Fifty years is a big celebration, and we want our viewers there every step of the way.”

Starting in the ’70s and ’80s

“Oklahoma Gardening” host Casey Hentges prepares to interview former host Ray Campbell in celebration of the show’s 50th anniversary.

In those early days, Maxon demonstrated basic gardening techniques while filming live. He was soon followed by then-Oklahoma A&M College alumnus Raymond Kays, who continued filming the show in Oklahoma City for five years. In 1980, OSU Extension horticulturist Ray Campbell took over the hosting duties, filming segments in his backyard garden

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Raymond Kays records an episode of the show at the OETA demonstration garden in Oklahoma City.

During [Ray] Campbell’s time as host, “Oklahoma Gardening” transitioned from a seasonal show to year-round, boasting 50,000 weekly viewers.

Casey Hentges has shared her horticulture expertise with viewers for 11 years.

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and cooking demonstrations in his kitchen. With advancements in technology, the show was now videotaped in advance instead of filming live. “Live television is a tricky thing,” he said. “I was explaining watermelon selection with what appeared to be a ripe one but when I cut it, it was still green on the inside. I never turned it around for the viewers to see.” During Campbell’s time as host, “Oklahoma Gardening” transitioned from a seasonal show to year-round, boasting 50,000 weekly viewers.

Cooking segments with Barbara Brown, former OSU Extension food specialist, were added in the early 1980s to help viewers discover ways to use garden-fresh produce in their kitchens. She also offered tips on food storage. “I always tried to use equipment I thought most people would have in their kitchens, so these cooking segments would be more relatable,” Brown said. “I had two goals each time — to teach basic kitchen skills and how to prepare fruits and vegetables. Oklahoma is known for low consumption of these foods, so I wanted to tie the lessons to fresh produce.”

the installation of butterfly, perennial and shade gardens, and viewers were there to watch and learn along the way. Other new features under Dobbs’ tutelage included an irrigation system, a formal garden, water gardens and a garden railway. Dobbs was instrumental in creating the “Oklahoma Gardening” Ambassadors program to help plant items and promote the studio garden. This was also a time when educational videotapes were produced on numerous gardening topics. The tapes were available for checkout in public libraries to give gardeners step-by-step guidance of techniques demonstrated on “Oklahoma Gardening.”

The ’00s through present day

In May 2001, Steve Owens stepped in as the ninth host after serving as the studio garden manager. An avid stone collector, he incorporated rock gardening at the studio garden. Several new gardens were established

under his direction, including a patio, sun perennial and Oklahoma Proven gardens. The chicken moat became a reality, and the herb garden was redesigned. When Owens left in 2007, Kim Holmes shared her gardening expertise and entomology knowledge as the 10th host. Along with seasonal-based topics, Holmes explored themes suggested by viewers and

[Steve] Dobbs was instrumental in creating the “Oklahoma Gardening” Ambassadors program to help plant items and promote the studio garden.

The ’90s

The studio garden continued to grow under the direction of the show’s seventh host, Steve Dobbs. He capitalized on ideas to expand and improve the studio gardens. He oversaw

[Barbara] Brown also took the cooking segments to Italy as part of a course she was teaching, which added to the diversity Unt eatem. Et quid eos ni repudaestem of “Oklahoma nis estium doloribus min comni aut officto ribernature corio molest officia Gardening.” CONTRIBUTOR: 1983 -2022

“Oklahoma Gardening” videographers Jacob Schmidt (left) Daniel Farris (right) capture educational gardening content for the show.

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Brown also took the cooking segments to Italy as part of a course she was teaching, which added to the diversity of “Oklahoma Gardening.” Paul Mitchell took over hosting duties in 1986. Mitchell, an OSU horticulture professor, steered the show in a new direction by taking it on the road to feature gardens and arboretums statewide. The variety in filming locations enhanced the show, but he knew it needed a permanent home. That year, “Oklahoma Gardening” was given a few acres on the west side of Stillwater, a site that has grown today into The Botanic Garden at OSU. When Extension horticulturists Sue Gray and Jim Gallott took their places in front of the camera as hosts in 1987, they had their work cut out for them. They converted the overgrown research plot into the “Oklahoma Gardening” studio garden. To keep the show’s original philosophy, Gray and Gallot brought viewers along as they built raised beds, planted a fruit orchard, designed flower beds and more. With the departure of Gallott, Campbell returned to co-host with Gray.

“Oklahoma Gardening” crew members Christi Evans, Daniel Farris, Casey Hentges, Jacob Schmidt and Bailey Singleton produce gardening episodes that reflect the seasons year-round.

implemented programming that continues today, like concerts and yoga in the garden. Holmes also took the show on the road with statewide, regional and international tours to showcase gardens and visit with experts on various topics. “People loved to be on ‘Oklahoma Gardening’ when we traveled the state,” Holmes said. “It’s definitely the people’s show.” Hentges joined the show as the 11th host in 2015. She is the longest-running host with nine full seasons under her belt. She added the Backyard Demonstration Gardens with a hobby greenhouse and hoop house, showcasing how to incorporate vegetables into any backyard garden. “The experiences I’ve had as host are wonderful,” she said. “I’ve met some great people and taken the audience behind the scenes of different places that most people don’t get to see. And the businesses and homeowners that have opened their doors to us have been great. I grew up in Oklahoma, but this position has really opened my eyes to how unique and diverse our state is.” Hentges also writes and produces the show in collaboration with the expert video production and editing crew of Daniel Farris and Jacob Schmidt and show assistant Bailey Singleton. Laura Payne, horticulture educator for OSU Extension in Payne County, and Kevin

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Gragg, a longtime video producer, were also instrumental in elevating the show’s success during the past 25 years. Since 2010, viewers worldwide have watched “Oklahoma Gardening” on YouTube and Facebook to learn gardening skills. India, Canada, Australia and the United Kingdom are among the top-ranking countries tuning in. In 2022, the show was recognized by YouTube for having more than 100,000 subscribers, and it has grown to more than 130,000 subscribers today. Luther, Oklahoma, residents Jane and George Martin have watched the show for 35 years and said the show is relevant to all levels of gardening. “Whether you have pots on the patio or a large garden, the show addresses all levels,” Jane Martin said. “We watch every Saturday morning. We may be doing something else, but when it’s 11 o’clock, we stop what we’re doing and watch the show. I love Casey’s personality and enjoy seeing all the new plants on each show.”

ideas go on the list for next year. It’s always something new.” Thanks to an anonymous donor, a new addition to the garden will be introduced later this year. A separate 50th-anniversary display garden and special topiary are under construction. Also, Stillwater’s Eskimo Joe’s has printed a commemorative 50th anniversary “Oklahoma Gardening” T-shirt that is available at all Joe’s Clothes stores and online. “Whether you’ve been gardening for 50 years, or you planted your first tomato plant this season, the show has something to offer,” Hentges said. “We’re excited to be a part of the rich history of the show and look forward to where the next 50 years take us.”

The next 50 years

Hentges believes the show has remained so popular because the crew keeps the content fresh. “We put together a list before each season of what we want to showcase, and we never get through a season having done it all,” she said. “Those remaining

“Oklahoma Gardening” airs Saturday mornings at 11 a.m. and Sunday afternoons at 3 p.m. on local OETA-TV channels. Viewers can also stream the show and watch segments on YouTube.

THANK YOU FOR MAKING THIS YEAR’S CAMPAIGN THE BRIGHTEST GIVE ORANGE YET! On April 2-3, the Cowboy family supported OSU students, faculty and programs through incredible generosity.

TO SEE THE IMPACT OF GIVE ORANGE 2025, VISIT: GIVEORANGE.ORG

THE COWBOY WAY

Lou Anella loves sharing his horticulture expertise. He grew up in a rural area of upstate New York and worked on his neighbor’s farm. After completing a doctorate at Cornell University, his job search led to Stillwater and a teaching role in the Oklahoma State University Department of Horticulture and Landscape Architecture. While serving as a professor, Anella was named director of The Botanic Garden at OSU in 2014. The garden was established 30 years ago as a filming site for “Oklahoma Gardening,” a weekly television show produced by OSU Agriculture, which airs on Oklahoma PBS affiliate OETA. “Oklahoma Gardening” celebrates its 50th anniversary this spring. “‘Oklahoma Gardening’ is the origin of the botanic garden, and it’s still a major part of our mission to provide whatever the show needs,” Anella said. “But over time, it has become more of a public space.” Under his leadership, The Botanic Garden at OSU has upgraded its infrastructure, paving roads, sidewalks and parking lots; improving accessibility for garden visitors of all ages; building a new on-site classroom; and developing the Treewalk Village, among other attractions, for children. In 2023, Anella gave up teaching responsibilities to be the garden’s full-time director. He mentors employees, facilitates hands-on internship opportunities and assists with fundraising initiatives. Much of the garden’s funding is provided through donations with coordination from the OSU Foundation. “When I can sit down with a potential donor and explain our projects, why we need the money, or how their money will honor their loved one or help us serve the community, they end up wanting to give more,” Anella said. “As the full-time director, I can pay attention to projects and get the community more involved.” Throughout his 28-year tenure at OSU, Anella has received two regents distinguished teaching awards, national recognition for teaching in irrigation, and a national accolade for fundraising efforts at the garden. “I’ve had an excellent career. I met my wife here, got married here, ended up having a stepson and raised him here,” he said. “Oklahoma, Stillwater and OSU have been very, very good to me.”

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STORY GAIL ELLIS | PHOTO GARY LAWSON

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Since retiring in 2024, former Cowboy wrestling coach John Smith has spent more time on his ranch in Stillwater.

True Grit

The wrestler becomes the wrangler

he wrestler eyes up his opponent. More than 30 years since John Smith won his second Olympic gold medal, he is still looking for a challenger. Nowadays, you won’t find him basking in the cheering Olympic crowds of Seoul or Spain. You won’t find him matside in Gallagher-Iba Arena, where he coached the Cowboy wrestling team to five titles and trained 153 All-Americans. You might not realize he was a wrestler at all unless you looked beneath that dusty brown cowboy hat

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to see those trademark cauliflower ears. Behind that grizzled white beard is that same wry smile and the glint of his hazel brown eyes. Smith wrestled collegiately at around 134 pounds, but today, his opponent is a heavyweight, coming in at around 1,000 pounds. It’s his cattle and it happens to be lunchtime. Since retiring from OSU in 2024, Smith has spent more time on his ranch. His herd has increased, coming with new responsibilities and difficulties he’s had to learn to overcome. “In wrestling, you have to be hard; you have to be tough, and you have to be

able to bounce back,” Smith said. “Some of those days [of working on the ranch] and breaking ice five, six, seven times a day were tough, but I liked it. I liked having a different kind of challenge.” Another favorite pastime of Smith’s that he has been able to devote more time to is fly fishing. He recently traveled to Argentina with several friends in search of a rare fish called a Golden Dorado, a fish known for its aggressive nature, acrobatic leaps and fighting strength. “There was no possible way to ever go before, so I promised myself that the first year I retired, that would be one of

STORY LIBBY RAY | PHOTOS ELLIE PIPER

the first trips I would make,” Smith said. “It was everything I thought it would be, plus more.” Smith’s time at Oklahoma State University was nothing short of legendary. Since finding a home in Stillwater at 17, Smith built a legacy of victories on and off the mat. “Coach Smith truly dedicated his life’s work to Oklahoma State University, Cowboy wrestling and generations of student-athletes. His accomplishments that include gold medals, world titles and national championships as a wrestler and a coach are only matched by his character and the kind of person he is,” said Chad Weiberg, director of athletics. “His constant pursuit of excellence for Cowboy wrestling permeated throughout our entire athletic department. He was so supportive of all our coaches and their programs and continues to be. John Smith is the definition of loyal and true.” Now, only one year after announcing his retirement, Smith said he still isn’t to a point where he is looking back at his time with the university. “For me, watching OSU wrestling this year, I just never really looked at it as evaluating my career and what I thought about it. It’s just been nice being a fan of Oklahoma State Athletics,” Smith said.

The National Wrestling Hall of Fame and Museum recently announced a partnership with Iron Monk Brewery to launch an American light lager, “The Low Single Leg,” inspired by Smith’s famous move. This partnership is more than just a celebration of Smith’s legacy, Iron Monk will be donating a portion of all sales from the lager to the NWHOF. “By picking up a case, you’re helping the National Wrestling Hall of Fame, and its primary purpose is to preserve the sport and recognize the great athletes and great coaches that have come and gone,” Smith said. From winning Olympic gold medals to his World Championship titles in France, Switzerland, Japan and Bulgaria, Smith has traveled around the world representing his country and his alma mater. “I’ve gotten the chance to travel to a whole lot of places,” Smith said. “And I always look forward to coming home.”

BY THE NUMBERS OSU WRESTLING CAREER

154-7-2

OLYMPIC GOLD MEDALS

YEARS AS A COACH

PERFECT DUAL SEASON RECORDS

ALL-TIME CONFERENCE RECORD

171-24-5

TOP-FIVE FINISHES AT NCAA CHAMPIONSHIP

Scan to watch a video interview with Coach Smith.

Left: John Smith traded in the wrestling singlet for the jeans and cowboy hat (right).

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Ainsley Kyle is a Ph.D. student in the School of Industrial and Engineering Management working toward a career in the Department of Defense.

Woman on a Mission

CEAT doctoral student carving her own path in traditionally male-dominated field

insley Kyle is proof that talent and determination transcend all boundaries. She has her sights set on a career in the Department of Defense, and to complete her mission, has gained hands-on experience through internships that will help her redefine the field. Currently a Ph.D. student in industrial engineering and management with a focus on human factors, Kyle studies how to optimize human performance, safety, comfort and productivity by designing systems that accommodate human capabilities and limitations. She has studied physiological factors such as brain activity, heart rate and

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breathing entropy, among others, to help determine improvements in equipment used by the Department of Defense. These improvements are geared toward making the ever-increasing level of technology more manageable for users. This is her third degree from Oklahoma State University’s College of Engineering, Architecture and Technology, having received her bachelor’s in 2023 and master’s in 2024. Dr. Katie Jurewicz, an assistant professor in the School of Industrial Engineering and Management, taught Kyle in her junior year Human Factors Engineering course, then asked her to join the Human Systems Engineering and Applied Statistics lab team in 2022.

Jurewicz attributes Kyle’s success in a field not typically pursued by women to Kyle’s exceptional talent and drive. “I know, as a woman, that it can be hard sometimes and there are days where you feel like you don’t belong,” Jurewicz said. “However, Ainsley loves to break down any barrier she may face in her career, and she will be the first in line with the sledgehammer to break down any wall in the way of her goals. As her advisor, I’ve even had to tell her to slow down and be patient with research and she always responds with, ‘Well, why can’t I be the first?’” Jurewicz and Kyle, alongside Dr. Ryan Paul and Brock Rouser from the mechanical and aerospace engineering

STORY TANNER HOLUBAR | PHOTOS ELLIE PIPER

department, currently work on projects related to understanding how pilots behave and interact with automation in complex systems. “Research shows that people cannot make decisions effectively when either in an overload or underload cognitive environment, so our work investigates how to capture cognitive workload in real time and adapt the automation to fit the cognitive needs of the operator,” Jurewicz said. PATHWAY TO THE DOD Kyle completed an internship with the U.S. Navy over the summer of 2024 as part of the Naval Research Enterprise Internship Program. She was stationed at the Naval Air Station Patuxent River in St. Mary’s County, Maryland — the Navy’s research technology development base. Although

she had never had much exposure to military life, the internship was a full circle moment, as her grandfather was a pilot in the Navy. Kyle spent 10 weeks researching in naval laboratories involved in the initial stages of the Navy’s study into brainmachine interfacing. The objective was to explore how systems can be designed to be adaptable to any pilot in a dynamic range of operating conditions. Kyle’s studies are thought to be correlated to important research constructs like mental workload, situational awareness and attention. “There are plenty of research interests geared toward identifying and extending the physical limitations of pilots, but not very many are concerned with the cognitive limitations encountered throughout a flight. This becomes increasingly critical as

technologies become more reliable and humans are faced with tremendous amounts of information,” Kyle said. She attended many tours on base, including Test Pilot School and the Air Test and Evaluation Squadron. She tried on an F-35 pilot helmet-mounted display system and saw its digital night vision capability. She also tested white and green phosphorous analog night vision goggles used by pilots. “Overall, the goal was to protect our pilots, protect our country,” Kyle said. “And that was made very apparent throughout the whole process. We are here to advance naval aviation technology by prioritizing human factors.” Kyle’s research and capabilities continue to evolve. Lately, she has been developing a method to better analyze the data she collects. She is working

“I know, as a woman, that it can be hard sometimes and there are days where you feel like you don’t belong. However, Ainsley loves to break down any barrier she may face in her career, and she will be the first in line with the sledgehammer to break down any wall in the way of her goals.” DR. KATIE JUREWICZ

Ainsley Kyle interned with the Navy last summer and will intern with the Air Force this summer.

ASSISTANT PROFESSOR IN THE SCHOOL OF INDUSTRIAL ENGINEERING AND MANAGEMENT

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Ainsley Kyle’s research is related to human factors in engineering, which includes studying a person’s physiological response when using technology.

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Ainsley Kyle (right) is pictured in the flight simulation lab inside Oklahoma State University’s Advanced Technology Research Center. Kyle, along with her mentor, Dr. Katie Jurewicz (left), are researchers in the School of Industrial and Engineering Management.

on a Bayesian statistical model that can predict a person’s physiological response, such as heart rate, based on individual, contextual and task-related factors. She secured an internship with the U.S. Air Force this summer, working on research at the Air Force Research Laboratory at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base in Ohio with the 711th Human Performance Wing. The AFRL’s 711HPW develops, integrates and delivers user-centric research, education and consultation benefiting the Air Force. It is made up of the Human Effectiveness Directorate and the USAF School of Aerospace Medicine. While currently undecided about which DoD pathway she wants to pursue, Kyle is excited about the future with so many possibilities and innovations that await. “I would love to work in the defense space, which I think is unique for industrial engineering,” Kyle said. “And there is a need for so many different perspectives on these problems. You

never know what is coming. You never know what is around the corner.” MAKING A STRONG ACADEMIC IMPRESSION Kyle has shown a tremendous ability to excel as a CEAT student and has received numerous scholarships. These include the Mark and Lee Ann Dickerson Scholarship, the Woodson Family Trust Scholarship, the Robert F. Herod Engineering Scholarship, the Lynn E. Bussey Scholarship and incentive, the Walter Kolb Graduate School Scholarship and an Academic State Regents scholarship. “I certainly wouldn’t be where I am right now without the gift of focus these scholarships have given,” Kylez said. Under Jurewicz’s tutelage, Kyle has demonstrated the type of curiosity that great researchers possess. She describes Jurewicz as her academic mother, her best friend and her muse. “Dr. J is my biggest supporter and one of my favorite people,” Kyle said. “She is the reason I stayed at OSU for all three degrees. She pushes me to produce

the best work I can and has taught me so much about HFE and research in general. I absolutely love that lady.” For any student who joins her research team, Jurewicz has them write down their motivations, which she keeps in her desk. In times of stress or waning confidence, she shows them these motivations to remind them why they are there, and that the pursuit of their work is worth the effort. “I am Ainsley’s academic mom, and I love seeing her grow right now as a researcher so that one day she will be ready to leave home and build her own research program,” Jurewicz said.

Scan to learn about majors within the College of Engineering, Architecture and Technology.

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Capitol Cowboys

The Oklahoma State University Alumni Association would like to recognize and thank the 2025 Capitol Cowboys. These state representatives and senators are also OSU alumni, parents and supporters helping to serve the needs of our students and university at the State Capitol. COWBOYS IN THE HOUSE Steve Bashore, Miami Trey Caldwell, Faxon Mark Chapman, Broken Arrow Eddy Dempsey, Valliant Mike Dobrinski, Okeene Scott Fetgatter, Okmulgee Emily Gise, Oklahoma City Jim Grego, Wilburton David Hardin, Stilwell Toni Hasenbeck, Fletcher Ellyn Hefner, Oklahoma City Kyle Hilbert, Bristow Derrick Hildebrant, Catoosa Brian Hill, Mustang Molly Jenkins, Coyle Mike Kelley, Yukon Dell Kerbs, Shawnee

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Mark Lawson, Sapulpa Mike Lay, Jenks Dick Lowe, Amber Anthony Moore, Clinton Carl Newton, Cherokee Kenton Patzkowsky, Balko John Pfeiffer, Orlando Trish Ranson, Stillwater Cindy Roe, Lindsay Jim Shaw, Chandler Jay Steagall, Yukon Danny Sterling, Tecumseh Ron Stewart, Tulsa Judd Strom, Copan Tammy Townley, Ardmore Mark Vancuren, Owasso Max Wolfley, Oklahoma City

COWBOYS IN THE SENATE Michael Brooks, Oklahoma City Bill Coleman, Ponca City Jo Anna Dossett, Tulsa Todd Gollihare, Bristow Regina Goodwin, Tulsa Grant Green, Wellston Randy Grellner, Cushing Brian Guthrie, Bixby Chuck Hall, Perry John Haste, Broken Arrow Brent Howard, Altus Darcy Jech, Kingfisher Julia Kirt, Oklahoma City Lonnie Paxton, Tuttle Roland Pederson, Burlington Aaron Reinhardt, Jenks Jack Stewart, Yukon

STORY LIBBY RAY | PHOTO GENESEE PHOTO

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OSU-OKC CONSTRUCTION TECHNOLOGY PROGRAM FILLS NEED FOR STUDENTS, INDUSTRY

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STORY GRANT RAMIREZ | PHOTOS PROVIDED

he summer after graduating high school, Jesus Ceballos wasn’t preparing for college. He was assembling mattress racks for a sleep center that was about to open in Oklahoma City. Growing up in a single-parent household, financial struggles were a constant reality for his family. Ceballos thought the only way to achieve stability was to become a doctor or lawyer — a future that wasn’t attainable for him. He was on a break from his job when he introduced himself to someone working at a desk in the newly constructed facility. Ceballos learned that the man oversaw construction of the building, working his way up after graduating with a construction management degree from Oklahoma State University. “That conversation opened my eyes to an entirely new career path,” Ceballos said. “I had never considered going into construction, but I quickly realized it was a perfect fit for me.” Attending college in Stillwater wasn’t a realistic option, though. Not only did he have to work full time to help his family make ends meet, which meant staying close to home, but he also couldn’t afford college for four years. Fortunately, OSU-OKC’s Construction Technology program was there to fill that gap. The campus was nearby, it offered f lexible class schedules that allowed him to balance work and school, and its two-year associate degree was financially manageable. “The OSU-OKC Construction Technology program offers a comprehensive curriculum designed to provide students with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in the construction industry,” department head and professor Terry Clinefelter said. “Hands-on training and our emphasis on both technical and leadership skills allow graduates to pursue a wide range of career paths in the industry and hit the ground running.” After Clinefelter gave Ceballos a tour, the young man was convinced it was the path for him. During Ceballos’ time in the program, he developed a strong foundation, learning critical industry skills, such as reading plans, estimating and managing projects. Between the technical knowledge, certifications and emphasis on professionalism, he felt ready to prove himself in the industry.

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“OSU-OKC had great connections with local construction companies, and that network played a huge role in helping me get my foot in the door.” -Jesus Ceballos

Above: This Intro to Construction Management class is one example of OSU-OKC’s flexible course offerings that allow students to work during the day and attend school at night.

Ceballos graduated with a job offer from AC Owen Construction, where he worked for eight years in numerous roles before becoming a superintendent with Cowen Construction. “In the future, I want to continue advancing in the industry, taking on larger and more complex projects — possibly moving into a senior leadership role,” Ceballos said. “OSUOKC had great connections with local construction companies, and that network played a huge role in helping me get my foot in the door.” The Construction Technology program works closely with each student to help them secure employment, with many having jobs lined up before graduation. OSU-OKC maintains close relationships with construction companies to identify which students would be good culture fits, then makes contact. “Terry [Clinefelter] knows our company and what we are about,” said Aaron Owen, president and CEO of AC Owen Construction. “He does such a good job of placing people with companies where he feels like they’d have the best chance to succeed. Any time Terry reaches out about someone, we are always going to

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give them a look because they’ve proven to have a high percentage of success within our company.” Owen was himself a product of the OSU Construction pipeline as he graduated in 2000 with a construction management degree. Any time he drives through Oklahoma City, he can almost always point out a building he’s been a part of. To him, the most rewarding part of construction is seeing the collaboration it takes for a large team to get a project from a discussion to a permanent structure. At OSU-OKC, he established the Aaron and Megan Owen Endowed Scholarship to assist students in the Construction Technology program — to help them break into the industry that has supported him and his family for decades. Owen’s inspiration for the scholarship started on a golf course at Gaillardia Country Club, where he met a young man named Levi Fredrickson. “At the time, Levi was a bag boy, but he just had exactly what I look for in a good employee,” Owen said. “He always went out of his way to go above and beyond, but he didn’t have

a whole lot of support from home or direction in his life. So, I asked if he’d be interested in working for me.” Fredrickson’s start at AC Owen sparked a desire to pursue a construction technology degree at OSU-OKC. Owen decided to help him through school financially, and Fredrickson has enjoyed a successful career since. The experience made Owen realize what a big impact he could make on someone’s life. Establishing the scholarship became a no-brainer, he said. “We’ve been blessed with the ability to help others and get them in a position to help themselves personally but also help the industry,” Owen said. “The industry is so busy, and it has been for years. And I don’t see it slowing down.” As much as the program helps students, it is also crucial for local companies. In Oklahoma, the construction industry struggles to find enough individuals — both tradesmen and management — to enter its workforce. OSU Polytech and the Construction Technology program aim to provide industry-aligned academic programs

“There’s a lot of bright minds that don’t reach their full potential because of their financial situation. Donations can help someone who came from nothing but has a lot of drive to fulfill their dream.” -Manuel GUtierrez

Above: Graduates of the Construction Technology program play a role in developing landscapes across the state, from Oklahoma City to Tulsa and everywhere in between.

and workforce development throughout the state. OSU is uniquely positioned to help, as a significant portion of its graduates stay to work in Oklahoma after graduating. Specifically, OSUOKC serves many nontraditional students who, for many reasons, don’t have the opportunity to attend fouryear programs. It fills that gap in education and development. Chris Kates, a 1999 OSU engineering technology graduate and owner of Midwest Wrecking Co., also established a scholarship at OSU-OKC to help students and the construction industry. “My wife, Jean, and I wanted to support individuals in our field that may not have the same opportunity that I had growing up,” Chris Kates said. “We need more high-quality individuals in the construction industry so it can grow. The construction industry has been very good to my family and supports so many families around the state.” Construction Technology program graduates are immediately ready to make an impact in the workforce. They’ve proven themselves to be highly motivated and hardworking.

Given OSU-OKC’s demographic of nontraditional students, the program serves many people who have to work through college to support their families, as well as veterans who are trying to find their way after service. And when they get an opportunity, they are determined to prove themselves. “A lot of OSU-OKC kids just really appreciate the opportunity that they have been given,” Owen said. “When they appreciate it, they tend to make more out of it. It’s almost like a boxer who is an underdog and trains harder to win the fight because everyone is betting against them. There’s a little bit of that that goes into a lot of the students who come through that program.” Manuel Gutierrez’s success is a testament to that. Growing up, his father would come home and share stories from the construction site. He knew he wanted to follow in those footsteps. “My dad instilled a drive in me to get the best result with what I’ve got,” Gutierrez said. “Regardless of the obstacle, there’s going to be a way around it.” But Gutierrez knew he couldn’t afford a college education without burdening himself with loans. Fortunately, in high school, he was selected to a concurrent

program with Dove Science Academy that paid for him to take courses at OSU-OKC. He still worked his way through school at his dad’s fencing company, but the aid made a degree possible. Gutierrez, 22, now works at AC Owen as an assistant superintendent. He loves that every day presents a new challenge, one that he knows he can overcome. “There’s a lot of bright minds that don’t reach their full potential because of their financial situation,” Gutierrez said. “Donations can help someone who came from nothing but has a lot of drive to fulfill their dream. And it would help Oklahoma grow in the long run as well. “I’d like to give Terry Clinefelter and Aaron Owen a huge thank you. They really changed my life.”

Scan the code for more information on how you can make an impact at OSU-OKC, or contact Donovan Woods at dwoods@osugiving.com or 405-596-4633.

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Hands-on training at Oklahoma State University Institute of Technology ensures cybersecurity students graduate workforce-ready.

Defining Cybersecurity Excellence OSU Polytech program trains students in crucial defense industry

n an era of increasingly sophisticated cyber threats, Oklahoma State University Institute of Technology’s cybersecurity program through OSU Polytech is empowering students to meet those threats with cyber defense education. Consistently ranked among the best cybersecurity programs nationwide, OSU Polytech equips students with expertise, hands-on training and realworld experience to stay ahead in this rapidly evolving field. Students don’t just learn about cybersecurity — they experience it in live, simulated environments that mimic real-world cyber threats. From penetration testing and ethical hacking to malware analysis and cyber incident

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response, graduates enter the workforce ready to take on the most complex security challenges businesses and government agencies face today. OSU Polytech faculty and students are also leading innovative industry partnerships, groundbreaking research and cutting-edge capstone projects. BRINGING CYBERSECURITY TRAINING TO INDUSTRY As cyber threats evolve, OSU Polytech is responding by bringing cybersecurity training directly into the workforce. Cybersecurity lead instructor Brett Weber and interim Information Technologies Director Howard Licht are partnering with Bart Collins, OSU

Polytech’s director for partnerships and programs, to provide professional development training for QuikTrip employees. “This initiative strengthens corporate cybersecurity skills while allowing participants to earn a microcredential, demonstrating OSU Polytech’s ability to train both for industry and in industry,” Licht said. Meanwhile, Licht is collaborating with Brandy Russell of the Muskogee (Creek) Nation’s Technology and Analytics Office to develop cybersecurity training for networkconnected health care devices. With cyber threats increasingly targeting health care, OSU Polytech is proactively protecting medical technology.

STORY LINDSAY LYNCH | PHOTOS ANDREW NICHOLS

Faculty are also pioneering artificial intelligence education. Information Technologies instructor Daniel Schmidt is working with Russell on an AI-focused micro-credential, while Weber and Licht are developing two AI technical elective courses for the associate degree program. Discussions are also underway for a future AI-focused bachelor’s degree option, keeping OSU Polytech ahead of industry needs. INDUSTRY-DRIVEN INNOVATION IN ACTION One of OSU Polytech’s most ambitious student projects is a direct response to industry demand for stronger collaboration across disciplines. In fall 2024, industry partners specifically requested an interdisciplinary approach, bringing together Engineering Technologies and Information Technologies students to develop real-world solutions. Recognizing this need, OSU Polytech responded swiftly, assembling faculty and students to tackle this challenge. The result is the Pistol Pete AI Capstone Project. This joint effort blends artificial intelligence, robotics, engineering and cybersecurity to create a smart, interactive campus guide — a project that reflects the crossdisciplinary approach that the industry is increasingly adopting to achieve its goals. Set to be installed in the Engineering and Information Technologies Building lobby on the Okmulgee campus, the AI-powered Pistol Pete will feature voice recognition and response, allowing visitors to ask for directions or campus information in real time. With facial recognition and motion tracking, the robotic Pete will provide a modern, interactive experience that showcases AI-driven technology. This project is more than just a technical achievement — it represents OSU Polytech’s commitment to aligning education with industry needs. By fostering collaboration between IT, engineering and cybersecurity, students graduate with technical expertise and critical problem-solving skills — making them highly valuable

Oklahoma State University Polytech students from the Instrumentation and Automation Engineering and Cybersecurity and Digital Forensics programs join forces on a cutting-edge capstone project, integrating AI, robotics and security solutions.

in industries where cross-functional collaboration is key. NATIONAL RECOGNITION, REAL-WORLD RESULTS Year after year, OSU Polytech’s cybersecurity program earns national rankings and recognition, cementing its reputation as Oklahoma’s leader in cyber security education. Employers across industries actively recruit OSU graduates, knowing they bring not just a degree, but real-world experience and technical expertise. Beyond the classroom, students compete in national cybersecurity competitions, where OSU Polytech consistently performs at a high level. These events test their ability to defend networks, analyze cyber threats and respond to real-time security breaches — all essential skills for today’s workforce. This commitment to hands-on training, real-world applications and industry-driven education is why OSU Polytech is not only Oklahoma’s top

choice for cybersecurity education but also a program with a national reputation for excellence. “Cybersecurity and technology are evolving at a rapid pace, and OSUIT is not just keeping up — we’re leading the way,” said Dr. Heather Ortiz, interim dean of OSUIT School of Creative and Information Technologies. “By listening to industry, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration and providing hands-on, real-world experience, we ensure our graduates don’t just enter the workforce — they shape its future.”

Scan to learn more about Polytech programs at OSU Institute of Technology.

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Smashing the Competition

OSU Esports claims Big 12 Championship in Super Smash Bros. Ultimate

s his heart raced and breath quickened, Noah Hightower remained composed, knowing he had spent countless hours grinding for this moment. This was no ordinary Super Smash Bros. Ultimate tournament — it was a chance to claim conference supremacy and earn a spot in the prestigious College Esports Commissioners Cup in Arlington, Texas. “It was a little nerve-racking,” Hightower said. “I’ve played this game for a long time so I shouldn’t be nervous, but with the amount of talented players in the tournament, I knew it was going to be a challenge.” Hightower was joined by fellow OSU students Grant Adamson, Mason McKnight, Evan Simons and Nolan Voss for the inaugural Big 12 esports tournament. The team, competing in its maiden tournament under the OSU Esports brand, faced off against fellow Big 12 institutions, the University of Colorado, the University of Houston, the University of Arizona, Arizona State University, the University of Kansas and co-host Baylor University. Each matchup consisted of a fouron-four format, in which each player competed against their opponent until their respective 12-live allotment, known in SSBU circles as “stocks,” were exhausted. Once a player is eliminated, it becomes a tag team environment, where the next player joins the game and picks up where their teammate left

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off. Once all four players on a team are eliminated, the game is over. Matchups throughout the tournament ranged from single-game formats to best-of-three and best-of-five series. “The format wasn’t anything new for us, as most tournaments tend to have similar setups,” Adamson said. “However, it does require different strategies depending on character matchups and possible team rematches.” The Cowboys faced few obstacles on their quest, going undefeated and sweeping Houston in the best-of-five grand finals. They earned the Big 12 qualifying spot at CECC, joining teams nationwide to compete for the SSBU top honors. “I knew we could win it,” Hightower said. “Winning our first one speaks to just how much effort we have put into building each other up because many teams had a few extremely good players, but none really had a consistent stream of powerhouses like we did. Any one of us could just take seven stocks at random against them. Being qualified for CECC is also exciting because it will be much more challenging, but also offline in a format we are much more comfortable in.” Since its inception in 2018, the OSU esports community has continued to level up. The additions of the nearly 2,000-square-foot OSU Esports Arena in the Student Union, the OSU Esports competitive team and the Gaming Leadership certificate program

demonstrate the commitment and dedication to developing OSU esports, culminating in this first conference title. The team hopes this win will serve as a springboard for OSU esports to compete at CECC next year in more games, as the national tournament, dubbed May Madness, hosts more than 320 teams, 185 schools and 1,500 of the nation’s best esports competitors who vie for the championship in Overwatch 2, Rocket League, Valorant, Street Fighter 6 and, of course, SSBU. “Winning the Big 12 tournament qualifier was a huge moment for our program,” said Shaun Noll, OSU meeting and conference services manager and esports advisor. “Qualifying for the CECC in May felt like the result of all the hard work we’ve put in, and it’s a clear sign that we’re ready to take on the next challenge at the highest level. I am extremely proud of the team and cannot wait to share this experience with them.” Editor’s note: The OSU esports team would make it to the third round of the CECC national tournament.

Scan the QR code for more information on OSU esports.

STORY JEFF HOPPER | PHOTO ELLIE PIPER

The OSU esports team reacts during a match, showing that emotion is just as much a part of the sport as skill and hand-eye coordination.

S TAT E M AG A Z I N E .O K S TAT E . E D U 95

Julia Benbrook reports live from the White House to more than 1,000 CNN partners worldwide.

From Cowgirl to Correspondent

OSU alumna reports live on CNN and its affiliates worldwide

rom Oklahoma State University to national news coverage, alumna Julia Benbrook plays a vital role in keeping the world informed every time she speaks into a microphone. Benbrook, born and raised in Woodward, Oklahoma, has known she wanted to be a journalist since the eighth grade. After winning first place in the Veterans of Foreign Wars Patriot’s Pen essay contest and traveling to Washington, D.C., to read her essay titled, “Why America’s Veterans Should be Honored,” she knew this was what she wanted to do for the rest of her life. Benbrook chose OSU to help on her journey into the journalism world. As a multimedia journalism major, she

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had opportunities and experiences in the School of Media and Strategic Communications that she credits for preparing her for this career path. “I had the chance to work on several different types of projects from daily news packages to long-form documentaries, and I think that that type of training is really important,” Benbrook said. “It’s not just what you learn about in the classroom when it comes to journalism, but that you get out and ask questions, be curious and OSU provided us with opportunities to do that.” Outside of class work, Benbrook, a firm believer in putting in the work and taking initiative through shortterm goals, was incredibly involved on

campus and took every opportunity she could to gain the experience she knew she would need. “The campus involvement side of things really played a big role in preparing me for what I do now,” Benbrook said. “I was a four-year member of the OSU Pom Squad, and I served as Miss OSU my senior year as well as being involved in the President’s Leadership Council, Student Alumni Board and several other different types of clubs. Those roles really gave me opportunities to meet lots of people on campus.” After graduating from OSU, Benbrook worked as a reporter for KOTV-DT, the CBS affiliate in Tulsa, where she broke down national stories

STORY LIBBY RAY | PHOTOS PROVIDED BY JULIA BENBROOK AND THE OSU FOUNDATION

“It’s not just what you learn about in the classroom when it comes to journalism, but that you get out and ask questions, be curious and OSU provided us with opportunities to do that.” JULIA BENBROOK CNN CORRESPONDENT Julia Benbrook has a bachelor’s degree from Oklahoma State University and a master’s from Northwestern University’s Medill School of Journalism, where she specialized in politics, policy and foreign affairs reporting.

and how they would impact the local audience. While in Oklahoma, she was named a NextGen Under 30 award winner and was nominated for a Heartland Emmy in the interview/ discussion category. Benbrook also returned to her alma mater as a reporter for Inside OSU before beginning her CNN career. “Those of us who have worked with Julia knew early on that she was destined to broadcast on a national stage,” said Blaire Atkinson, OSU Foundation president. “While we are not surprised by her success, we are incredibly proud of her.” Now based in the nation’s capital, Benbrook delivers live coverage from the White House and Capitol Hill as

a national correspondent for CNN Newsource. Never forgetting her roots, Benbrook makes annual trips back to Stillwater for her favorite event, the Women for OSU Symposium. Her relationship with the group is longstanding, dating back to 2015, when she was honored as a student scholar and has hosted the event since 2020. “In 2017, we had the privilege of inviting Julia to interview keynote speaker Joan Lunden, and in 2019, we welcomed her back as our social media host. We were beyond excited to have her as our longstanding Symposium emcee starting in 2020,” Atkinson said. “Julia’s contributions are integral to the Symposium’s continued success each year.”

This past election cycle, Benbrook traveled nationwide, covering significant political events, including primaries, debates and both major party conventions. “Some days are nonstop and hectic, but there are moments where you get a chance to look up and remind yourself of where you are and the stories that you’re getting to tell,” Benbrook said. “I think those are my proudest moments.”

Scan for more information on OSU’s School of Media and Strategic Communications.

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COWBOY CHRONICLES

A Contentious Claim The Biggest Darn Drum in Oklahoma?

Beginning in the 1970s, Pete’s Partners would bring the big drum onto the football field to celebrate a Cowboy score with Pistol Pete riding on the cart. The Spirit Rider and Bullet replaced them in the 1980s.

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he biggest drum in Oklahoma arrived in Stillwater nine decades ago. How drums are measured may complicate this claim, but with over 56 square feet of surface area on two drumheads, a drum that found its way to the Oklahoma Agricultural and Mechanical College campus in the fall of 1935 was prepared to challenge any other contenders in the state. Drums come in all shapes and sizes and are considered some of the oldest musical instruments. They are utilized in almost all styles of music, from the secular to the sacred. Frequently considered the heartbeat of a song, they produce the rhythm and cadence for other instruments or dancers. At OAMC, the marching bands carried at least three types of drums: snare, tenor and bass, plus additional percussion instruments such as cymbals. As a land-grant college, OAMC had mandatory male enrollment in the corps of cadets. The Military Department also provided significant support for the college Col. Robert marching band. During Cotton the fall of 1935, Col. Robert Cotton purchased a large bass drum, which he then donated to the Music Department and bands for use in performances, parades, pep rallies and football games. Cotton was assigned to the OAMC campus in 1934 and placed in charge of the Military Department as professor of military science and tactics. Cotton, a career army officer, graduated from West Point in 1908 and served in the

STORY DAVID C. PETERS | PHOTOS GARY LAWSON AND OSU ARCHIVES

Philippines, the Mexican-American border, the Hawaiian Islands and the American Expeditionary Force during World War I in France. He completed graduate work in history at Georgetown University in 1931 and moved his family to Stillwater several years later. Cotton’s daughter, Charlotte, was 19 and enrolled in the School of Home Economics. She joined the Kappa Alpha Theta Sorority and, in the fall of 1934, ran for and was elected band queen. After a whirlwind freshman year, she would marry in the fall of 1935. It is unknown if Charlotte’s reign as band queen influenced her father’s desire to support the marching band with the new bass drum. The large drum was far too bulky and heavy for individuals to carry, so employees in the college shop built a special four-wheeled carriage for the instrument, capable of holding it and two band members: one to strike the drum and another riding with cymbals or smaller drum. Six additional students were needed to push and pull the drum for parades or around the football field. A bronc-riding cowboy was painted on one side of the drumhead and the college seal on the other. The big drum made its first appearance at a Thursday night pep rally held on Oct. 17, 1935, in the college auditorium. The football game against Duquesne University took place on Saturday and the team needed a lift after struggling through the early Although the big drum was rarely used on the field in OSU Band formations during halftime, season. The drum was pulled onto the it was typically located on the track surrounding Lewis Field during football games. stage and dedicated to helping “get back that winning spirit.” While the drum suppliers with access to large steers The correspondent continued with was featured at the game, the Aggies lost weighing between 2,000 and 3,000 descriptions of other large bass drums, by 20 points. pounds bred in Argentina. But the including Purdue University (92 When first purchased, the limits of the breeding program had been inches), Harvard University OAMC drum was described reached. (88 inches), Ohio State, as “second in size to none,” OAMC’s drum was used during the Stanford, and Dartmouth but within a month, a letter remainder of the 1935 and 1936 school (all over 84 inches but no was received contesting years. There had been challenges. longer in use). The Connthis claim. The drum major The four-wheeled cart used to move Leedy Drum Company from the University of the drum was cumbersome, with of Elkhart, Indiana, Chicago band corresponded turning limitations. Tight turns at designed and built Big with the college, sharing the corners and hazards were challenging Bertha, promising they disappointing news that OAMC to maneuver around. The large drum would never make a larger one Charlotte did not have the largest drum in easily overturned even with mild wind for anyone. Cotton the nation. The OAMC drum was 6 gusts. And even though it was much Drumheads were made from feet or 72 inches. Chicago’s “Big Bertha” larger than any other drum in the band, animal hides and the size of available was over 100 inches and recognized as it didn’t sound any louder. The music hides limited drumhead dimensions at the largest in the country. department placed the drum in storage this time. Conn-Leedy had identified S TAT E M AG A Z I N E .O K S TAT E . E D U 99

After several years without use, the Big Drum was given to the Girls’ Marching Band formed during World War II. At that time, the drum received a new and more maneuverable cart, which made it easier to navigate in tight spaces.

after 1936, where it remained for six years. By 1942, there had been several offers to purchase the drum from the college, but each time, the exchange failed to occur when the anticipated new owner confessed they had no use for the instrument. Max Mitchell, marching band director at the time, reported the skin drumheads were still in excellent condition and estimated to be valued at $200 for the set. After World War II, a new cart was constructed, and the drum was given to the Girls’ Band. The

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new cart had only three wheels, was lighter, easier to turn and was designed to carry only the drum itself. The Girls’ Band expanded rapidly during the war and used the drum as an accessory in parades and football games. With the university name change in 1957, the drumheads were repainted with OSU orange letters on one side and a color drawing of Pistol Pete on the other. While used infrequently when the marching bands were playing, the drum regularly appeared at pep rallies, football games, parades and

public events. Hiram Henry, a longtime marching band director beginning in the late 1940s, was featured with his daughter, Janice, and the drum when she was 1 and 17 years later when she was a drummer in the band. After over 30 years of use, neglect and some abuse, the drum was still nameless. In 1967, new band director Albert Lynd proposed a naming contest. The drum had been refurbished recently, perhaps receiving new Mylar drumheads, and had a new “sound.” Even with a $20 prize for the winning

entry, no acceptable identifying name was selected and the instrument continued to be referenced simply as the “big drum.” At the beginning of the 1970s, the service fraternity Alpha Phi Omega was responsible for pulling the drum around the track surrounding Lewis Field and onto the grass field after scores or breaks during football games. After the track was eliminated during modifications to the stadium, Pete’s Partners took over control of the drum at games. The Partners were individuals who had not been selected to serve as the Pistol Pete mascot but remained Pete supporters and were allowed to pull the drum onto the field after touchdowns and field goals from the end zone in an arch up to the 30-yard line. At some point, Pistol Pete began riding on the back of the carriage with the drum. Beginning in the mid-1980s, the Big Eight Conference limited the number of non-athletic auxiliaries participating during game events. In 1984, OSU introduced the popular Spirit Rider and combined with the existing Pistol Pete mascot, cheerleaders and pom squads, the big drum was demoted and placed back in storage under the Lewis Field Stadium or possibly the basement of Gallagher Hall. As the OSU Athletic Department prepared for major expansions and renovations for what would become Boone Pickens Stadium and GallagherIba Arena, the big drum needed a new home to be retained. Around 2000, the OSU Music Department, along with the Marching Band and members of the OSU Alumni Band Association, were able to identify a storage location at the OSU Library Annex north of the main campus. Since that time, the big drum has been featured at only one public appearance, the celebrations associated with the OSU Pistol Pete Mascot centennial. Pistol Pete Alumni members assisted with refurbishing the drum carriage and tires so that the big drum could be pulled onto the turf at Boone Pickens Stadium for the football game held on Sept. 2, 2023. Former Pistol Petes provided the propulsion as the big drum made one more trip onto the field.

When the University of Chicago ended its football program in 1939, its big drum was retired and placed in storage. During World War II, it was apparently “irradiated” but passed a Geiger counter test and returned to Conn-Leedy in Elkhart after the war. The University of Texas purchased the drum in 1954 for $1 and continued to use the name “Big Bertha.” Purdue’s drum was refurbished in 1937, and several inches were added at that time. The introduction of Mylar drumheads in 1957 eliminated the size restrictions and made replacing damaged surfaces much easier. But by then, the heyday of most big drums had faded, with many being discarded or destroyed. OSU’s still unnamed big drum has endured a similarly checkered past. While perhaps not the biggest bass

drum in the nation, some in the college community and alumni band members have preserved the largest drum in the state. It has survived an unheralded career lasting 90 years, remains ready to serve as an inspiration again if necessary and is still believed to be the biggest drum in Oklahoma.

Scan the code for a video interview with David Peters on the history of OSU commencements as the university celebrated its 150th ceremony this spring.

Stored for several years in OSU Athletic Department facilities, the Big Drum found a new home at the OSU Library Annex on Boomer Road, where it has been secured for over two decades.

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New Life Members

The OSU Alumni Association would like to recognize and thank the following individuals who are now connected for life to Oklahoma State University through their new life memberships purchased Oct. 1, 2024 – Jan. 31, 2025.

ALUMNI A S S O C I AT I O N

Visit ORANGECONNECTION.org/life to see how easy it is to become a life member today or call 405-744-5368.

*An asterisk designates life members who joined as OSU students. Karen Shropshire, '07, '07 Bill Fairhurst Jim Beckstrom, '80 Nicholas Napoliello* Molly Lacy* Adam Sack* Richard Bechtol, '71 Colleen Stegmann* Isabella Egleston-Foshee Molly McCrary, '23 Elliott Williams, '22 Rachel Gibbs* Brad Purdy, '87 Ashleigh Green Evelyn Wilson* Kevin Kelly, '88 Konner Shebester* Bryan Jarrett, '92 Carrie Rhoades Keegan Carrera Marria Carter, '87 Watson Schiller* Holly Hanks* Kim Arnold, '80 Kammie Jackson, '23 Kaden Bush* Alyssa Davis, '24 Linda Taylor, '80 Zachary Smith, '23, '24, '24 Emma Carter David Moreland, '21 Andy Fosmire, '89 Whitney Hansen, '02 Wes Hardin, '11 Janet Wehrle, '78, '84 Geoff Eaton Grace Schneberger Ben Vise Brad Mallam, '98 Caleb Burns* Autumn Rider Stacy Engle, '95 Syed Hamid, '76 Sherry Summers, '89 Lillian King* Alison Ray Clifton Cline Nathan Stene* Bill Davis, '72, '74

Emma Downing Austin Dedmon* Samuel Robinson Vince Smith, '67, '70 Audie Wolf, '11, '13 James VanGordon, '24 Jonah Rodgers* Reese Mckewin Ashleigh Callahan* Zoe Ward* Isabella Haus* Trey Dorrell* Janis Burger, '70 Rylee Bernard, '23 Kerri Benard* Robert Haxton, '08 Gavin Sires* Carli Hawkins* Makayla Keirsey* Maddy Stone* Cole Rogers* Daniela Bromwell Jaxon Allen Gary Burger, '70, '72 Becca Roberts, '99 Aaron Bonnett, '04 Austin Brown Walton, '09 Patricia Dimick* Mary Peterson, '74 Anthony Carter, '11 Patraic Kierl* Peggy Sasser, '72 Dick Holcomb, '73 Abby Rosebrook, '24 Meghan Mraz Joe Howell, '70, '72 Shelby Rader Jason Hollis, '24 Maggie Jarrett, '05 Toba Haynes* Raniyah Upshaw Lee J Henderson, '82 Anna Hester* Gabriel Trevino Kaitlyn Gilchrist Camryn Lawrence Don Richards, '78 Connor Richard* Freya Dupee* Anthony Dillard, '91 Ella Klassen

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Connor Quigley* Robert Wyckoff Asfaha Iob, '81 Jessica Morey, '11, '11 Aidan Hamm* Timothy Shoup* Susan LeGrand Honska, '79 Shanedra Nowell, '07, '12 Trinity Caster Makyla Nitzel* Saige Summerlin* Kelly Loganbill, '89 Dedra Baker, '14 Austin Partida, '08 Bob Martin, '73, '97 Kaycee Neal Cooper Waddell* Tristan Jones Bobbie Gregg, '91 Grace Teuscher, '24 Ethan Smith* Cameron Strother Jaxson Selby* Amy Jo Shepherd, '24 Christi Ferguson, '94 Jarret Birdwell* Russell Peterson, '73, '74 Maddison Farris, '23 Anthony Blatt, '93 Carly Cordell, '12 Alexis Higgins* Olivia Adey* Brandon Collings* Aaron Moss Sara Chester* Brittany Sherment Ainsley Mann* Haley Rocha* Lindi Brooking* Kristi Storts, '95 Joseph Kelly* Darbi Latham, '17 Katherine Fox* Chaunté Gilmore, '07 Katelyn Moore Lindsey Hayes, '07, '09 Dell Farris, '10 Lynsey Weaver, '04 Katelin Donaldson

Arco van Antwerpen Jorja Ford* Ron Saffa Elva Soto* Bryston Smith* Amanda Arens, '07 Megan Montgomery Dow Wise Kyle Griffin, '07 Maddie Meiner* Gustavo Martinez Madison Zweiacker* Cindy Eichor Goldberg, '75 Austin Chesser, '22, '22 Monica Kidwell, '85 Carlene Miler Denzil Tallent, '84 Luke Douglass* Haley Velez* Lauren Decker, '22 Anna Gartner, '11 Charles Jantzen, '13 Bucky Gwartney, '87 Bruce Butcher, '75 Mady Hedge* Audie Rice* Dustin Hayes, '09 Ron Jaques, '74 Ellie Neidel* Steve Marks, '75 Taylor Moody* Lauren Bradley, '06, '08 Reynilda Monteza, '23 Tyler Houk* Courtney Dornan, '10 Samantha Hale* Chloe Lemmons* Molly Amsler* Patricia Neely, '63 Ashley Thompson, '07 Derek Nightingale, '04 Jonathan Lowinski* Jaycie Cash, '23, '23 Dylan Walker, '24 Ava Smith* Sabrina Wood, '01 Luke Swanson* Mark Gregg, '91 James Seward, '77 Eric Barnum, '95 Evan Zorn, '86

Ellen Wells Delia Crawford Liberty Carson* Gail Lusk, '69 Gilchrist St. Angelo* Dalton Cosby Marta Henderson, '83 Dash Ahlstrom William Patton* Reagan Hodson* Beverly McAnally, '00, '12 Nathan Slater* Linda Marcis, '76 Madison Masters* Annie Brandenburg* Jenna Sanders* Alleyn Campbell* Kylie Belt, '24 Matthew Wells* Debbie Bickle, '95 Brayden Smith* Krista Smith, '91, '95 Gene Hamm III Tami Jarvis, '84 Laney Reasner, '24 Michael McCleod, '85 Johnnie Rogers III, '74 Gentry Cantrell* Robin Maguire* Ainslee Crum* Jim Carey, '76, '78 John Martin, '79 Ember Caffee* Kyle Ramsey* Joe Westhoff, '91, '91 Hays McDonald* Brooke Pruitt Lahoma Schultz, '05 Elizabeth Matson, '11 Sara Young* Jennifer Grilliette, '94 Tucker Rumer* Gage Allen* John Redman, '84, '90 Emily Wade, '24 Kelli Moore, '02 Terrell Hamill, '07 Guner Galvin Kyalla Bowens, '96, '99 Sheridan Dethrow Gloria Roling

Sharon Rash, '00 Amy Schneiderman Jackson Rogers* Bowen Bridges* Payton Irick* Melissa Beallis Garry Taylor Mikki Hawthorne, '01 Trenton Ferguson, '94 Justin Releford Buddy Neal Jr., '72 Ken Kroll, '13 Caroline Malget* You Sun Lee Thomas Reardon, '68 Sara Kober Seth Long* Emily Heidenrich* Josh Stephens* Rebecca Williams, '72 Tessa Dorrell* Adam Shuck Jennifer Antonacci* Randy Clough, '83, '84 Brian Eakin, '06, '10 Emily Collins, '15 Mark Biggers, '94 Rhonda LeGrand, '75 Tracie Jerd, '88 Jason Regan, '98 Khorey Shirley* Calli Breaux* Kaci Anderson* Olivia Bellah* Shawna Thompson, '95 Jackson Riddle Avy Doolittle* Janlyn Griffin, '07 Kelsey Baber* Kyle Bene, '23 Payton Bernard* John Sherment, '99 Colby Davis Sarah Weber* Karson Stamper* Sam Avant, '79 Nathaniel Henry Ryan Pancoast Cheyenne Fox* Brent Juhnke, '08 Gregory Pittman, '81 John Ralston, '65

Gretchen Nantz* Carson Manhalter* Kerry Royko, '99, '02 Mustafa Mahmood* Amanda Ziemke* Norma Cole-Simpson, '84 Kim Couch, '88 Cameron Lovelady Larry Ober, '64 Kate Houser* Donley Moffer, '89 Macy Abshere, '24 Quincie Hartman* Matthew Sitton, '24 Trey Beatie* Faith Street* Christian Thiel* Maile Dipaula* Mary Hyde, '70 Kristen Slupsky, '20 Emily Ward* Owen Ashmore* Morgan Vance, '18, '18 Jay McDonald, '98 Luke Ludwick* Sidney Keller*

Jennifer Trull Rachel Butler* Cathy Jaques Olivia Hamilton Zachary Ilbery, '20 Carmen Chung, '95 Abigail Cooper* Ryan Baumwart, '02 Cheyenne Hampton Adelaide Mathison, '23 Bobbe Huston, '76, '77 Madison Walker, '13 Britt Taylor* Cole Payne* Amanda Gudgell, '01, '06 Braxton Sherment, '21 Hayley Blair* Hannah Hernandez Tanner Kenyon* Debbie Burling Trace Santino, '21 Riley Logsdon* Joshua Basler, '04 Jordon Humann, '15 Tim Jarvis, '82, '83 Kayla Clifton

Dawn Lewis, '91 Karstyn Cantrell Clay Thompson, '82, '84 Cody Pennington Crystal Moore, '05 Caden Davies Paige Lee, '99, '10 Emilee Foran* Charlotte Rockford Amy Hiser Ronald Pitt, '73, '78 Michelle Jarrett, '92 Marianne Bulard, '79 Jennifer Cobb, '92 Tobi Johnson* Jana Clift, '03 Bailey Horn Christian Muttiah, '24, '24 Richard Ticer, '79, '83 Michelle Wynn, '96 Aspen Motley* Gregg Pickens Leah Phillips-Conklin, '01 Marshal Raley, '93 Micki Canfield, '80

Amy Grace, '00 Ashton Key* Christopher Hall, '23 Jeffery West Reagan Cavanaugh, '22, '24 Steve Jaggers, '02 Morgan Ritchie* David Parker, '76, '01 Krishnapuram Gopal, '65 Reta Badley Roy Grant, '22 Carmen Gonzalez* Johnabeth Frost, '68 Jerry Marcis, '81, '03 Harvey Benson, '58 Macy Shaw* Bella Panganiban* Carol Moffer, '84 Ryleigh Woody* Sharon Sharie Benoit, '92 Carolyn Standridge, '60 Amber Chambers Jacob Riley* Cheldon Gatz*

Briana Barnes Lisa Dawn Daniel, '88 Emily Banister* Cheyenne Werner* Daniel Allen* Brynn Baker, '24 Maci Allen* Seneca Smith* Caleb St Cyr* Anne Shay* Brenda Beeler, '86 Adelia Farris, '78 Bill Starr, '74 Fred Doscher, '96 Alicia Pettett, '95 Cole Dunn* Collen Campbell* Tina Bolton-Linn, '90 Anna Gordon* Hannah Doherty Elyse Cronic* Baylor Ewbank* Wayne Parker Jr., '71 Larry Steverson, '83 Lorelei Winton Leslie Payne, '13 Kamryn Murdock

Camille Columbus* Brittney Rose* Taylor Gordon* Gracie Dover* Kariana Jarve* Martin Tucker, '86 Mackenzee Underwood, '06 Victoria Smith* Lloyd Roberts, '94 Melinda Hane, '94 Jack Grace, '96 Jill Carey, '76 Austin Hooten* Rienna Franks* Crystal Hayes, '87 Taylor Bordenkircher Mason Zweiacker Amanda Frantz, '07 Tate Robertson, '24 Skylar Cabrera* Braden Garris* Zachary Means* Charlotte Sams* Katie Etheredge* Hunter Shedrick, '18 Tom Cameron, '73

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CHAPTER NEWS

STUDENT NETWORK (Above) Members of the OSU Alumni Association’s Student Network spend an afternoon playing board games with residents of Legacy Village of Stillwater. (Below) Karsyn Walker and other students developed their professional skill set at Coaching and Connections, a joint event with the Student Network and OSU Career Services.

TULSA Members of the Cowboy family hit the lanes at Andy B’s Bowl Social for the Tulsa OSU Alumni Chapter’s Cowboy Bowling Tournament.

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PHOTOS PROVIDED TO OSU ALUMNI ASSOCIATION

NORTH TEXAS (Above and below) Alumni and friends in North Texas attended the 20th edition of Brighter Orange of North Texas. The evening included live and silent auctions to help raise more than $198,000 for scholarships for OSU students from the area. (Photos by Nancy Farrar)

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CHAPTER NEWS

KANSAS CITY Cowboys in Kansas City connected with fellow alumni and friends at Messenger Coffee Co. and Ibis Bakery for the most recent edition of their Coffee with Cowboys series.

OKC METRO OKC Metro OSU Alumni Chapter members attended a day of service with Special Olympics Oklahoma during its Winter Games.

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CHAPTER LEADER PROFILE

Aletheia Lawry, Phoenix OSU Alumni Chapter Aletheia Lawry, president of the Phoenix Oklahoma State University Alumni Chapter, knows what it means to be a loyal and true member of the Cowboy family. Lawry, born and raised in Stillwater, understands the importance of staying connected and the impact that OSU can have on someone’s life, no matter where they end up. After moving to Phoenix, Lawry and her husband, David, knew they had to find a way to get involved with the local OSU community and thought a football watch party would be the perfect way to meet fellow Cowboys. “We just feel a connection to OSU,” Lawry said. “Everyone is incredibly welcoming when they find out we’re OSU grads. It’s such a community.” Having lived in different states over the years, Lawry knows that the best way

to form a community and support system is to find a connection. “Having the Alumni Association is the one constant that can keep us connected back to the university and can keep the university connected with us,” she said. One way that Lawry likes to stay in touch is by attending America’s Greatest Homecoming every year. Lawry cherishes her opportunities to travel back to Stillwater and experience the energy and traditions that make up the celebration. “We saw all the house decs from when I was little and as I’ve gotten older and had the opportunity to be at other universities when they’ve celebrated homecoming, it’s just not the same as OSU,” Lawry said. Carrying those traditions of OSU with her to Phoenix, Lawry is looking forward to the future of the Phoenix

Chapter and to what it will be able to accomplish. “I think what I’m most excited about is the possibilities of where we can take the chapter,” Lawry said. “We are going to make sure everyone here knows they have a home in the Alumni Association’s Phoenix chapter.”

ARIZONA OSU ALUMNI CHAPTER BY THE NUMBERS 2,320 ALUMNI AND FRIENDS 230 MEMBERS 74 CURRENT OSU STUDENTS 872 MILES FROM STILLWATER

Aletheia Lawry (center) poses with fellow Cowboys at a watch party.

STORY LIBBY RAY | PHOTO PROVIDED BY THE OSU ALUMNI ASSOCIATION

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CAMPUS NEWS

Forbes recognizes OSU as ‘Dream Employer’

Chris Kuwitzky brings over three decades of higher education financial leadership to Oklahoma State University.

Kuwitzky named senior VP and CFO Oklahoma State University President Jim Hess appointed Chris Kuwitzky as the OSU System’s senior vice president and chief financial/ administrative officer in March. Kuwitzky joins OSU from Langston University, where he served as vice president for fiscal and administrative affairs since September 2023. He brings over three decades of experience in higher education financial leadership at Oklahoma institutions. In his new role, Kuwitzky oversees financial, budget and accounting operations, long-range planning, facilities management, parking and transportation services, the OSU Police Department and public safety, and human resources. He also supports fiscal affairs at Langston. Dr. Hess praised Kuwitzky’s extensive background in higher education finance and strategic thinking, emphasizing his commitment to student success. “Chris’ extensive background in higher education finance and his deep

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understanding of Oklahoma’s fiscal landscape make him an ideal addition to the OSU team,” Hess said. Before Langston, Kuwitzky spent 31 years at the University of Oklahoma, rising to associate vice president of administration and finance and chief financial officer. He also served as vice president of administration and treasurer at Washburn University in Topeka, Kansas. Kuwitzky expressed his honor in joining OSU. “I look forward to working with President Hess and the OSU team to ensure strong fiscal management that supports the university’s land-grant mission and strategic priorities while keeping students at the center of our decision-making,” Kuwitzky said. An Oklahoma native, Kuwitzky holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration from OU and earned his certified public accountant designation in 1985. He began his career with Coopers and Lybrand Public Accountants (now part of PricewaterhouseCoopers) in Oklahoma City.

Forbes recognized Oklahoma State University as one of the top 25 education-based employers on its 2025 America’s Dream Employers list. OSU was No. 22 nationally among educational institutions, earning top honors in the state of Oklahoma and the Big 12 Conference. Forbes partnered with Statista, a market research firm, to poll over 140,000 employees and 10,000 students nationwide working for companies that employ at least 1,000 people. The poll assesses feedback in several areas, including career growth, work-life balance and workplace culture. This announcement follows OSU being named the top educational and top 10 overall employer in the state last fall. Christa Louthan, OSU assistant vice president and chief human resources officer, said the university’s positive and empowering work culture results from intentional efforts across the OSU System. “OSU’s land-grant mission is tied to the success of our people,” Louthan said. “Their work, whether that be teaching, research or keeping the grounds at OSU beautiful, drives our institution forward.” Employees were asked how likely they were to recommend their employer on a scale of zero to 10. Those responses were entered into a scoring system that also includes statistical data from the last three years, weighing the most recent data and responses from current employees within the state more than other criteria.

Olds named associate provost for the arts, OSU Museum of Art director Dr. Kirsten Olds has been named the inaugural associate provost for the arts and Marilynn and Carl Thoma professor, as well as the director of the Oklahoma State University Museum of Art. Olds was selected after a thorough recruitment process led by Dr. Jennifer Borland, involving representatives from academic colleges, The McKnight Center for the Performing Arts, and advisory groups. Dr. Chris Francisco, senior vice provost for academic affairs, expressed excitement about Olds’ appointment, highlighting her ability to think broadly about the arts and create innovative experiences for students and the community. “OSU has so many great resources in the arts, both on campus and off,

and Dr. Olds is the ideal person to help them flourish,” Francisco said. Olds earned her bachelor’s degree in art history from Columbia University and her master’s and doctoral degrees from the University of Michigan. Throughout her career, Olds has directed interdisciplinary programs, including an undergraduate degree in arts, culture and entertainment management, and a graduate program in museum science and management. She has spent the last 15 years at the University of Tulsa in various roles, including associate dean, senior associate dean and interim dean for the Kendall College of Arts and Sciences. Olds saw the new position at OSU as an opportunity “too good to pass up,” emphasizing the unique combination of roles and their impact on OSU’s arts perspective and community. She is excited about OSU’s land-grant mission and its potential to elevate its status through collaboration and innovative programs. Francisco noted that creating the associate provost for the arts and Thoma professorship demonstrates OSU’s commitment to enriching arts

Dr. Kirsten Olds

experiences for students and the community. Olds works with museum staff, faculty and stakeholders to develop a strategic plan that reflects the community’s needs and ideas. “I look forward to OSU’s art community growing beyond campus and making it more than a part of Stillwater, but an active member in the community,” Olds said.

OSU maintains prestigious recognition as Carnegie R1 institution Oklahoma State University has once again secured its designation as a Carnegie R1 research institution, reinforcing its position among the top research universities in the nation. The American Council on Education and the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching recently published the 2025 Research Activity Designations, unveiling an updated methodology that brings transparency to the classification process. “This reaffirmation of OSU’s R1 status is a testament to the dedication of our faculty, researchers and students who are pushing the boundaries of discovery,” said Dr. Kenneth Sewell, OSU vice president for research. “As a land-grant institution, our mission is to conduct research that directly benefits our communities,

industries and the broader society. Maintaining R1 status enhances our ability to attract top-tier talent, secure competitive funding and expand the impact of our research enterprise. “For OSU, R1 status is more than just a classification — it is a commitment to excellence in research and education. The designation fosters opportunities for public and private partnerships, supports economic development in the state, and strengthens OSU’s reputation as a leader in innovation and scholarly advancement.” OSU remains one of only 187 institutions in the U.S. to hold the prestigious R1 designation, now officially titled Research 1: Very High Research Spending and Doctorate Production. The new classification sets

a clear threshold of at least $50 million in total research and development spending and awarding at least 70 doctoral research degrees. These figures are determined using data from the National Science Foundation’s higher education research and development survey and the National Center for Education Statistics’ integrated postsecondary education data system.

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CAMPUS NEWS

OSUPD discusses enhanced 911 system The Oklahoma State University Police Department recently implemented a new enhanced 911 system for the Stillwater campus. This initiative has been launched as part of a new countywide system that alerts OSUPD when a 911 call is made from campus, including campus landlines and cell phones. “The new 911 system has brought a new level of emergency calling integration between the public safety agencies within Payne County, providing a unified platform by which they can more quickly and seamlessly handle emergency calls and coordinate resources for responding to emergencies in any part of the county, including the university,” said Ryan Frederick, OSU Enterprise IT assistant manager of network and telecommunications services. When a 911 call is placed on campus, it will be recorded and transferred to OSUPD. The new 911 digital capability can route information and location from an initial dispatch call to the Stillwater Police Department or Payne County Sheriff’s Office to OSUPD, saving dispatchers valuable time to respond to people in distress or need. “That pairing allows us to provide next-generation 911 support anywhere in the county seamlessly. If Stillwater or the county gets a call and it’s for OSU, when they transfer the call, we receive all metadata behind the voice to pinpoint locations, including caller ID,” said Travis Eastman, OSU emergency communications center supervisor. This enhanced 911 system is up and running with few complications and great reviews. The new system’s audio is clear and has improved significantly over the previous system. The ability to text 911 will be available at a later date. This system will be helpful for those who are unable to make a phone call or are more comfortable with texting. Until this system is implemented, OSUPD encourages students to use the Rave Guardian App.

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OSU Police Chief Michael Beckner

Beckner named police chief Last winter, Oklahoma State University chose Michael Beckner as the next chief of the OSU Police Department. He succeeded Leon Jones, who retired in July 2024 after 30 years with the OSUPD. Beckner started in law enforcement with the Corinth Police Department in Mississippi in June 1995. He’s worked in a university setting since 2006 as a detective, then lieutenant, and interim police chief with the University of Alaska-Anchorage. Following his time in Alaska, he was commander of patrol operations with Augusta University in Georgia. He has served as chief of police with Southeastern Louisiana University since July 2020. Beckner is also a veteran, serving in the U.S. Army and Army National Guard. Beckner said that as a medic in the Army, every day felt like it was the same tasks on repeat. He wanted something with variety. He found it

when he joined the Corinth Police Department. Of his career to date, Beckner is most proud of his programs with community policing and building trust through transparency. He wants a department that’s approachable, where officers are known by name. “I will make sure that our core campus and our housing areas are patrolled heavily,” he said. “In a perfect world, when somebody sees the police coming, they don’t say, ‘What’s going on?’ They’re there so often they say, ‘How are you today?’ That’s what you want.” Beckner is also keen on building on the relationship with the Stillwater Police Department and Payne County Sheriff’s Office. He will be moving closer to his son, who lives in Tulsa, and he and his wife, Jennifer, fell in love with Stillwater. “We walked around campus and talked with some folks. ... This is a place where I can finish out my career,” he said.

BOKF Foundation gifts $2M to Spears School of Business

Last year’s Miss OSU, Katelyn Woods, crowns the new Miss OSU, Jaselyn Rossman, in January.

Rossman crowned Miss OSU 2025-26 Jaselyn Rossman won the 2025-26 Miss Oklahoma State University crown this spring, competing against eight accomplished young women. A native of Sapulpa, Oklahoma, Rossman is pursuing a bachelor’s degree in accounting, is a Pi Beta Phi sorority member, an OSU pom dancer and the former Miss Oklahoma Teen USA 2023. Rossman expressed her joy in competing for the title. “Getting to compete for the title of Miss OSU was an amazing and fun experience,” Rossman said. “For me, I wanted to win the experience and not just the title. Although I took the preparation seriously, I made sure to have fun in rehearsals and get to know all the girls competing with me.” Brooklyn Barnett finished as first runner-up, and Morgan Burchfield was second runner-up. The judges recognized each contestant for their leadership, community engagement and self-improvement. Miss OSU will receive a $1,000 scholarship and support for her performance at the Miss Oklahoma

pageant, while the first and second runners-up will receive $750 and $500 scholarships, respectively. The competition featured five judges, including two vetted for Miss America, with four from OSU staff and faculty and one from Langston University. Barnett, a human development and family science major, cherished the support from her cheer team, while Burchfield, a double major in agricultural business and accounting, enjoyed making new friends and stepping out of her comfort zone. Rossman will represent OSU at special community events and participate in Miss Oklahoma events before the competition at Rose State College in Midwest City in June. Rossman’s platform, “Get Up & Move,” focuses on the transformative power of physical activity for mental and physical health. The Division of Access and Community Impact hosted this year’s pageant, which celebrated its 65th anniversary.

This spring, Oklahoma State University announced a $2 million gift from BOKF Foundation to the Spears School of Business. The gift was celebrated by renaming the business school’s lobby the BOK Financial Lobby, a favorite spot among students since the building opened in 2018. President Jim Hess highlighted the shared values and dedication to educational excellence between BOK Financial and OSU. Dr. Jim Payne, dean of the Spears School of Business, emphasized that the newly named space will enhance educational experiences and opportunities for students, empowering them to achieve their full potential. “The newly named space will serve as a lasting testament to this partnership and the positive impact it has on the Spears Business community,” Payne said. BOK Financial has supported various initiatives such as the Women for OSU Symposium and the Hargis Leadership Institute’s LEAD Week. The foundation has made significant gifts to OSU Athletics, Spears Business and the OSU Center for Health Sciences. Stacy Kymes, president and CEO of BOK Financial, praised the nearly 500 OSU graduates hired by the company, noting their quality education, lasting relationships and valuable connections made at OSU. Blaire Atkinson, president of the OSU Foundation, commended BOK Financial’s commitment to training future leaders for Oklahoma and beyond. Spears Business, powered by its motto, “the Power of Personal,” began the academic year with 6,458 students, making it the largest college at OSU. U.S. News & World Report ranked Spears No. 8 nationally for Best Online Bachelor’s in Business Programs and No. 11 for its online MBA program, marking the best placements in the history of the rankings.

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ALUMNI UPDATE

1970 1986 1961

Ruthanne Halacka, ’61 home economics education, stays busy in retirement as the co-author of two books. She released “Wisdom for the Journey: Reflections of Early Educators” in 2024 and “Leaders in Family and Consumer Sciences” in 2016.

1961

Ronald T. Noyes, ’61 agricultural engineering, ’64 master’s in agricultural engineering, completed his Ph.D. in higher education at the University of Oklahoma while working as a fulltime professor in 1998. He is semi-retired and formed a consulting LLC as a Fulbright Specialist, taught a three-week graduate course at NIFTEM, Delhi, India, and is now writing his 13th U.S. Patent on the “Dryerator.”

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1991 1963

Randall W. White, ’63 accounting, retired as CEO of Educational Development Corporation after 38 years with the company and has since started a real estate company.

Tom W. Friedemann, ’70 distributive education, ’91 Doctor of Education, was recently inducted into the Class of 2024 Oklahoma Career-Tech Hall of Fame. He also published his third book in early 2024, “The Stars Aligned and The Rest Is History,” about the development of Oklahoma’s premier career-tech system.

1980

Darrell A. Lunsford, ’86 animal science, was promoted from farm manager to production supervisor of Missouri for Pipestone Management. He currently oversees 33,000 sows on six farms.

1988

1992

1967

Michael S. Hyatt, ’67 finance, was awarded the 2024 Lifetime Achievement Award by Fort Worth Sister Cities International at the Mayor’s International Dinner and Global Awards. This recognition honors his significant and enduring contributions to Fort Worth’s global engagement and international relationships.

Douglas A. Putman, ’91 biochemistry, has embarked on a new passion for writing as he nears retirement. He self-published his first novel on April 1, 2024, and after working with a professional voice actor, his audiobook was released in August 2024.

John Gillentine, ’80 history, received the Distinguished Professor Emeritus award for the College of Arts and Sciences at the University of South Carolina.

Stephen B. Jones, ’88 finance, will never look past his years on our beautiful campus. He’s living the orange life everywhere he goes.

1984

1988

Stephanie A. Wood, ’84 geology, reflects on the past 40 years since graduating from OSU and notes that her accomplishments, both personal and professional, would not have been possible without the foundation she received during her time at OSU.

Steve E. Monnot, ’88 management science and computer systems, ’95 music, just celebrated 25 years with the Williams Companies in Tulsa.

William Focht, ’92 master’s in political science, ’95 doctorate in environmental science, is passionate about wine education and, since he retired from the OSU faculty in 2017, has earned seven professional certifications, including the Certified Specialist of Wine from the Society of Wine Educators, Advanced Certificate of Wine from the Wine and Spirit Education Trust and American Wine Expert from the Napa Valley Wine Academy.

1992

2003

2018 ’50s

Samuel C. Holzschuh, ’18 multimedia journalism, is a trial and appellate lawyer at McAfee & Taft, whose practice encompasses a broad range of civil litigation, including the resolution of complex business and commercial disputes, before state and federal courts, mediations and arbitrations.

Rex A. Cochran, ’59 plant and soil science, is retired and assisting with a program at the Care Center on Wednesday and Sunday for his church. Richard L. Tredway, ’59 architectural studies, ’61 master’s in architecture, and his wife, Cherry (Pryor) Tredway, ’61 home economics and community services, ’92 Doctor of Human Sciences, celebrated their 65th wedding anniversary this past August and their oldest grandson plans to be married in June of this year.

2019

’60s

1996 Jenny M. Kucera, ’92 journalism, works for Schatz Strategy Group as a technical editor and has an extensive career managing scholarly and technical publications. She now researches articles for the U.S. government.

1993

Bob McCraw, ’93 animal science, ’98 Doctor of Veterinary Medicine, has continued to practice small animal medicine in Collinsville, Oklahoma, since 1998. All three of his children have graduated from OSU and are doing well.

Brian Kennedy, ’96 journalism and broadcasting, transitioned to selfemployment three years ago and is now an independent insurance broker. He was honored by the Folds of Honor this past year at a football game. He and his wife, Amanda, moved to Grand Lake a little over four years ago and are building their retirement home. Both of their kids graduated from OSU in 2024. Holden is a mechanical engineer, and Hannah is a marketing director and is engaged to be married in September of this year.

1997

1995

Deedra Determan, ’95 journalism and broadcasting, and Ginger S. Kollmann, ’97 management information systems, both board members for the OSU Alumni Association, were recently recognized by Women We Admire in the Top 50 Women Leaders of Oklahoma for 2024.

Vinil Komalan, ’03 master’s in industrial engineering and management, shares a note of thanks to the OSU Industrial Engineering and Management faculty that helped shape him during his time at OSU. He now has 18+ years of experience in India’s courier express parcel industry through FedEx, UPS and now heads the industrial engineering department at MOVIN.

2003

Ryan N. Teubner, ’03 journalism and broadcasting, was voted in to become one of the partners of Rich & Cartmill Inc.

2005

Betsy D. Weaver, ’97 marketing, ’21 master’s in educational leadership studies, was promoted to OSU’s assistant director of the Student Success CRM (Slate) department. Michael J. Bradley, ’05 leisure studies, ’12 doctorate health, leisure, and human performance, will serve as dean of the Arkansas Tech University College of Research and Graduate Studies.

Adam P. Hoak, ’19 fire protection and safety engineering technology, recently got engaged to an incredible woman named Taylor and his business in commercial real estate is going strong.

2021

Marcus L. Alphin, ’21 aerospace administration and operations, graduated from Officer Training School at Maxwell Air Force Base on Nov. 8, 2024. He will continue onto Tyndall Air Force Base with the 337th Air Control Squadron to train as an Air Battle Manager.

Anita H. McMurtrie, ’61 art, remembers when Stout Hall was a men’s dormitory, Albert the Alligator lived in Theta Pond, Doel Reed was merely an art teacher who looked somewhat like Pablo Picasso and the original Pistol Pete set off a panic for firing his pistol in the air at a football game. Jack E. Nasworthy, ’63 general business, recently celebrated his 85th birthday and has enjoyed living in Legacy Village in Stillwater for the past four years. He is still an avid sports fan. Sharon (Stevens) Wright, ’65 business education, ’94 Doctor of Education, just celebrated her 82nd birthday. After retiring as dean of instruction at Tulsa Community College, she has kept busy swimming at the YMCA, creating collages, playing cards with friends and tutoring OSU athletes. Vaden W. Morgan, ’68 animal science, ’76 master’s in agricultural education, announces that his son, Clint Morgan, has graduated from the OSU Institute of Technology with a degree in auto mechanics and works at Seth Wadley Chevrolet as a parts manager.

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In Memory ’00s ’70s

Terry J. Brewer, ’70 agricultural education, lives in Longview, Texas, where his son, daughter-in-law and grandson also reside. John Jameson, ‘70 zoology, recently received the Oklahoma Dental Association’s James A. Saddoris Lifetime of Leadership Award for demonstrating an exemplary and lifetime commitment to continuity of quality leadership in dentistry.

’80s

James Wuerflein, ’82 secondary education, retired from farming. Michael P. Patterson, ’85 computer science, has retired after nearly 40 years with CGI Federal developing, supporting and deploying rocket and missile systems for the Army. His time at OSU prepared him for a fulfilling and rewarding career. He is now looking forward to traveling in an RV, fishing and seeing his grandchildren with his wife. Sherolyn Wallace, ’85 sociology, ’97 Ph.D. sociology, will retire after 31 years as a professor of human services at TCC and pursue an equine therapy program and research.

’90s

David C. Unruh, ’95 finance, loves retirement and spending time with his kids and grandkids. He also wants to congratulate all OSU graduates and send a big orange power salute to the class of ’95.

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Roy Brent Young, ’06 Ph.D. agricultural education, retired from Colorado State University Extension after a 20-year career. In addition to his work in extension, he served as an agricultural educator at the secondary, junior college and university levels. Maria (Lupita) Fabregas Janeiro, ’09 agricultural education, was awarded the National Distinguished Ruby Award at the 2024 National and Regional Awards for Epsilon Sigma Phi.

’10s

Tabatha L. AustinHarris, ’11 political science, received two 2025 NHTSA Administrator Awards in Washington, D.C., at NHTSA headquarters on Jan. 15, 2025. She is also receiving a team member award for a Route 66 Speed Campaign amplification and a Traffic Safety award for diversity – providing traffic safety to tribal nations across the U.S.

’20s

Braeden Shaw, ’24 architecture, son of Mikki Hawthorne, ’01 psychology, graduated from OSU this past December. Sarah Teeman, ’24 microbiology, was a member of the Niblack Research Scholars Program and gained international research Experience in Vanuatu during her time at OSU. She was named to the OSU Mortar Board Top 20 Freshmen. She interned at the University of California-Davis for maternal child health career and research initiatives for student enhancement. After graduation, she plans to attend medical school.

Duane C. Acker, ’57 Ph.D. animal nutrition, passed away on Dec. 13, 2024. Acker was born on March 13, 1931. Graduating in a class of 18 from the Consolidated High School in Wiota, Iowa, he won first place in a countywide scholarship examination to study at Iowa State University. Acker met his future wife, Shirley, at the Cass County fair. They married in March 1952 and moved to the edge of the ISU campus. He then received his master’s degree in animal nutrition. The couple and their daughter moved to Stillwater, where he taught full time while working on a Ph.D. at Oklahoma State University. After receiving his doctorate, Acker accepted a teaching position at ISU, where he wrote the textbook “Animal Science and Industry.” In 1973, he was recruited to head the University of Nebraska’s new Institute of Agriculture and Natural Resources. In addition to the College of Agriculture, experiment station and extension, the institute included the School for Technical Agriculture at Curtis, Nebraska; the university’s Water Research Institute; and Nebraska’s statewide geological survey. He was chosen to be president of Kansas State University in 1975, serving until 1986, when U.S. President Ronald Reagan appointed him to serve as head of food and agriculture for the U.S. Agency for International Development. President George H.W. Bush appointed him to lead the Foreign Agricultural Service. Later, he was appointed and confirmed as assistant secretary of agriculture for science and education. At the end of the Bush administration, the Ackers returned to their farm in Atlantic, Iowa. He loved dancing with Shirley, working on and driving his Model A, and researching his family history. He was very proud of his students’ achievements, had continuing relationships with many, and continued to encourage the young people around him.

Michael “Mike” M. Callaham, ’96 German, passed away on Oct. 14, 2024. Callaham was born on Nov. 26, 1964, in Fort Worth, Texas. The family moved to Oklahoma in 1971. He graduated from Jay High School in 1983. In 1985, he graduated from the Defense Language Institute and attended Oklahoma State University, earning his bachelor’s degree in German. He also worked toward fulfilling a dream of earning a Master of Religious Studies from Horizon University. From 1986-91, he lived in Giessen, Germany. Callaham married the love of his life, Karagene, on March 6, 1993, in Bristow, Oklahoma. He served a combined 23 years in the active and reserve components of the U.S. Army, retiring from the USAR in 2007. He worked as a contract background investigator for the Office of Personnel Management. After that, he served as church administrator for Calvary Chapel in Williamsburg, Virginia, and was later ordained an associate pastor at Calvary Chapel of the Sandhills in Aberdeen, North Carolina. Callaham was an avid football fan and a life member of the OSU Alumni Association, where he was the founding president of the New York City and the Southeast Virginia Chapters. He was a member of the Sons of the American Revolution and the American Legion.

Lindsey D. Fields, ’08 zoology, ’11 masters of zoology, passed away on Jan. 29, 2025, as one of the victims of American Airlines Flight 5342. Born on July 22, 1984, in Liberal, Kansas, to Dr. Todd and Feliza (Ramon) Carter, Fields grew up in Forgan, Oklahoma, where she was an active student, excelling in sports, music and cheer. Her passion for science and education led her to pursue higher learning, earning a pre-veterinary medicine degree from Seward County Community College, followed by both bachelor’s and master’s degrees in zoology from Oklahoma State University and the University of Mississippi, where she engaged in Ph.D. work in molecular

genetics. In 2014, Fields returned to Kansas, bringing her enthusiasm and brilliance to Butler Community College, where her dedication and leadership were recognized when she became department chair in 2021. Fields’ influence extended beyond the classroom — she was an academic advisor, mentor, advocate, leader and a beacon of encouragement for students and colleagues. As the president-elect of the National Association of Biology Teachers’ board of directors, she was a tireless advocate for excellence in life science education. She was en route to Washington, D.C., to represent the NABT community when tragedy struck, demonstrating her unwavering commitment to advancing education and fostering connections among educators. Beyond her professional achievements, Fields was a loving wife to her husband, Michael, and supermom to her 3-year-old daughter, Avery. Her favorite activities were exploring nature, trips to the zoo, preschool activities, dance class and playing outside. They also shared a love for cooking shows and preparing food together. Fields’ dedication to her family, students, colleagues and the broader educational community leaves a legacy that will continue to inspire for generations.

Malinda Berry Fischer, ’60 secondary education, passed away on Jan. 4, 2025. A Stillwater native, she followed in the footsteps of her namesake grandmother, Malinda Blanche Wise Diggs, who became the second woman to graduate from then-Oklahoma A&M College in 1898. After earning her education degree at OAMC, she furthered her studies at the HarvardRadcliffe Program in Business Administration in 1962. Her career spanned leadership roles in business and philanthropy, serving as president of Marietta Royalty Company, chairman of Thomas N. Berry & Company and on the executive committee of Chase Manhattan Bank’s Rochester Division. She served as chair of the OSU Foundation Board of Trustees and

interim president and CEO, helping to drive philanthropic initiatives that continue to benefit students and faculty. She established the Thomas E. Berry Professorship in Water Research and the Wise-Diggs-Berry Endowed Arts Faculty Award, strengthening OSU’s academic and arts programs. Recognized as the 2016 Women for OSU Philanthropist of the Year, Fischer’s leadership extended to numerous boards, including the OSU Art Advisory Council. Her vision and generosity helped shape OSU’s future.

Dr. Roderick Daniel MacDougall Jr., ’67 physiology, passed away on Dec. 30, 2024, surrounded by loved ones, including his wife, Nora Lindsay Taylor MacDougall, and his three children. MacDougall deeply loved God and showed it through his relationships and service. Born in Lubbock, Texas, his childhood instilled a lifelong passion for baseball. He met his wife of over 56 years while playing baseball and attending Oklahoma State University. After medical school at the University of Texas Medical Branch-Galveston, he joined the Army, had their first daughter and moved to Germany, where MacDougall served as a general physician, achieving the rank of major. Upon return to the U.S., their son was born, and MacDougall completed a pediatric residency at the University of Florida. The family settled on Mercer Island, had their second daughter, and MacDougall worked for Group Health of Puget Sound for over 30 years, receiving their service award. For three decades, Dan and Lindsay traveled the world offering medical care to those in need, invariably ever changed by those they served. The couple was also honored twice as MI Hometown Heroes. MacDougall played with the Puget Sound Senior Baseball League for fun and friendship, pitching on eight senior World Series-winning teams. He was inducted into the PSSBL Hall of Fame and the Roy Hobbs Hall of Fame.

Neal A. McCaleb, ’57 civil engineering, a distinguished civil engineer, public servant and proud member of the Chickasaw Nation, passed away on Jan. 7, 2025. McCaleb was born in Oklahoma City in 1935 and graduated from Putnam City High School in 1953. He then earned a bachelor’s degree with honors in civil engineering from Oklahoma A&M College in 1957. McCaleb was, first and foremost, a family man. He was devoted to his wife, Georgann, who he was married to for 69 years, and his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He was appointed as Oklahoma’s first transportation secretary by Gov. Henry Bellmon in 1987. He was also the first person in state history to hold three concurrent positions as secretary of transportation, Oklahoma Department of Transportation director and Oklahoma Turnpike Authority director. McCaleb’s public service began in the Oklahoma House of Representatives, where he served from 1975-83, including a term as House Minority Leader. Of the accomplishments McCaleb was most proud of, he considered his work bringing the first cable barrier system to Oklahoma highways to be among the most important work of his life. In 2001, President George W. Bush appointed McCaleb as assistant secretary of the interior for Indian Affairs, where he led the Bureau of Indian Affairs and advocated for tribal economic development. He also served as a presidential appointee on President Ronald Reagan’s Commission on Indian Reservation Economics in the 1980s. After returning to Oklahoma in 2003, he served as an economic development consultant and special advisor to Chickasaw Nation Gov. Bill Anoatubby. McCaleb eventually rose to the role of Ambassador of the Chickasaw Nation — a post he held until his passing. Throughout his life, McCaleb received numerous honors, including induction into the Chickasaw Hall of Fame in 1999 and the Oklahoma Hall of Fame in 2014, as well as the OSU Hall of Fame and the OSU Engineering Hall of Fame.

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Births James

Blair

Sutton

Ashlyn Bone, ’17 fashion merchandising, and Lucas Parsons announced the arrival of James Rose Parsons on Aug. 6, 2024.

Ali Givens, ’15 marketing, and Jeremiah Givens welcomed Blair Givens on July 10, 2024. Blair is the second child of the couple, after 2-year-old Mason.

Jennifer S. McCray, ’18 human development and family sciences, and Caleb A. McCray, ’18 management, ’19 MBA, welcomed Sutton Lane McCray on July 9, 2024. Sutton is already decked out in OSU gear and ready to cheer on the Cowboys.

Adelle

Ethan

Watson

Jackson Mulliken, ’19 animal science, and Madison Mulliken welcomed their daughter, Adelle Elizabeth Mulliken, the lucky little sister of the couple’s oldest child, Clementine, into the world on Dec. 10, 2024.

Andrew Rillo, ’16 industrial engineering, and Anna Rillo, ’21 human resource management, welcomed a Cowboy in the making, Ethan Jayce Rillo, to the world on June 28, 2024.

Roy Ward, ’11 doctorate of osteopathic medicine, ’21 master’s in health care administration, welcomed Watson Strong Ward into the world on Oct. 10, 2024. Watson has one 4-year-old sibling, Wheeler Allan Ward.

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Wedding Justin Torres, ’24 music education, married Jillian Marie Torres, ’21 strategic communications, ’24 master’s mass communications, on Feb. 2, 2025, at Coles Garden in Oklahoma City.

Submit your update at ORANGECONNECTION.org/share.

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AN ESTATEPLANNING TIP FROM

Pistol Pete Any account with a beneficiary designation (such as IRA and retirement funds, life insurance policies and annuities) can be used to support OSU.

» Easy to do » Easy to give to OSU » Easy on your heirs » Easy to learn Visit OSUgiving.com/estateplanning or call the OSU Foundation’s Estate & Gift Planning team at 800-622-4678 to discover more.

PARTING SHOT | 3. 22 . 25 The OSU wrestling coaching staff celebrates as Wyatt Hendrickson takes down Minnesota’s Gable Steveson en route to the NCAA heavyweight title in Philadelphia. Steveson, an Olympic gold medalist, hadn’t lost a college match before. The Cowboys took third in the team championships with six All-Americans and two national champions in Hendrickson and Dean Hamiti Jr.

PHOTO BRUCE WATERFIELD